Introduction
Paneer Shawarma is a flavorful and wholesome twist on the classic Middle Eastern dish. Soft, marinated paneer cubes are grilled to perfection and wrapped in warm flatbreads with fresh vegetables and creamy sauces. The combination of spices and textures makes it an irresistible option for a quick meal or party platter.
Making paneer shawarma at home allows complete control over the ingredients. You can balance the spices to your preference and ensure everything is fresh and wholesome. It is a great alternative for vegetarians who want the authentic taste of shawarma without meat.
This recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can recreate the street-food magic in your kitchen. Serve it with homemade sauces and fresh vegetables for a meal everyone will love.
Ingredients Needed
Here is a complete list of ingredients with approximate calorie counts. Values may vary based on brands.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Paneer | 250 grams | 600 |
| Yogurt | 2 tbsp | 20 |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp | 4 |
| Olive oil | 2 tsp | 80 |
| Garlic paste | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Ginger paste | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp | 8 |
| Ground coriander | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 3 |
| Salt | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Red chili powder | ½ tsp | 4 |
| Onion, sliced | 1 small | 40 |
| Tomato, sliced | 1 medium | 20 |
| Cucumber, sliced | ½ cup | 8 |
| Lettuce leaves | ½ cup | 5 |
| Garlic mayo or tahini | 2 tbsp | 100 |
| Tortilla or pita bread | 2 pieces | 200 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cut the paneer into small cubes and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Add yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic paste, ginger paste, paprika, cumin, coriander, black pepper, salt, and red chili powder. Mix well until paneer is fully coated.
- Let the paneer marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
- Heat a non-stick pan or grill pan over medium heat. Add marinated paneer cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Warm the pita or tortilla on a separate pan for a few seconds on each side.
- Layer lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and onion slices on the flatbread.
- Place the grilled paneer cubes on top of the vegetables.
- Drizzle garlic mayo or tahini sauce over the paneer.
- Fold or roll the flatbread to create a shawarma wrap.
- Serve immediately while warm for best taste.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch.
- Use spicy sauce or hot chili flakes if you prefer heat.
- Swap yogurt with vegan alternatives for a dairy-free version.
- Grill the flatbread lightly to add a smoky flavor.
- Serve with a side of pickled vegetables to enhance the flavor profile.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (1 shawarma wrap):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 20 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45 grams |
| Fat | 25 grams |
| Fiber | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 550 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Paneer shawarma pairs well with mint chutney or garlic mayo. Serve it with a fresh salad or roasted potato wedges for a complete meal. It makes an excellent option for lunchboxes, weekend gatherings, or casual dinners. Warm wraps taste best when served immediately after grilling.
Conclusion
Making paneer shawarma at home delivers the authentic taste of Middle Eastern cuisine with a vegetarian twist. The tender, marinated paneer combined with fresh vegetables and creamy sauces creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Experimenting with spices and sauces allows you to customize the dish for your taste. Once you try this recipe, homemade paneer shawarma can easily become a family favorite for quick meals or entertaining guests.
