This easy paneer sandwich is an Indian-style grilled cheese with a crisp, golden exterior and a warm, flavorful filling. The paneer is cooked in a spiced masala, then tucked into bread and toasted in a skillet until crunchy on the outside and gooey in the middle. The fresh chutney and tangy onion add brightness to every bite, making this a satisfying paneer sandwich for lunch, a quick meal, or a lunchbox. Makes 4 sandwiches in about 35 minutes, with 19 g of protein per sandwich.
Cut the paneer into small cubes and place them in warm water while you prepare the rest. This keeps refrigerated paneer tender.
Blend the cilantro, mint, green chili, lemon juice, salt, and enough water to make a smooth, thick, spreadable chutney. Set aside.
Toss the sliced red onion with lemon juice, Kashmiri chili powder, and salt. Set aside for 5 to 10 minutes.
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook until softened. Add the ginger, garlic, and tomato and cook until the tomato softens. Stir in the garam masala, Kashmiri chili powder, turmeric, ketchup, and salt.
Drain the paneer and add it to the skillet. Toss gently until the cubes are evenly coated with the masala. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes. The filling should be fairly dry, not saucy. Stir in the cilantro, remove from the heat, and let it cool slightly.
Spread green chutney inside each bread slice. Divide the paneer filling between 4 slices. Top each with lacha onion and shredded mozzarella. Close with the remaining slices.
Spread softened butter over the outside of each sandwich. Heat a skillet over medium-low to medium heat and toast the sandwiches until golden and crisp on both sides and the cheese has melted, turning once.
Cut each sandwich diagonally in half and serve hot with extra green chutney and lacha onion.
Notes
Paneer: A fresh block from an Indian grocery is softer and stays tender inside the toasted sandwich. Soak the cubes in warm water while you cook if the paneer has been refrigerated.
Cubes, not shreds: Shredded paneer blends into the filling and loses its texture. Cubes stay distinct.
Chutney consistency: Thick enough to spread without running. A thin chutney soaks into the bread. If using store-bought, use less.
Heat control: Medium-low to medium only. High heat browns the bread before the cheese melts.
Make ahead: The filling keeps for 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat until warmed through before assembling. Assemble and toast fresh for the best texture.
Yield: Makes 4 sandwiches with some filling left over.
Milder version: Leave the green chili out of the chutney.