Glazed Paneer with Spiced Grape Reduction
Golden-seared paneer cubes bathed in a rich, tangy-sweet grape reduction create an irresistible combination of flavor and texture. A bold vegetarian dish perfect for special occasions or creative dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Unique flavor profile
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Elegant presentation
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Vegetarian and protein-rich
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Balanced sweet and savory notes
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Paneer, cubed
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Red grapes
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Balsamic vinegar
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Brown sugar
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Olive oil
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Chili flakes
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Fresh thyme
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Salt and pepper
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Fresh herbs for garnish
Directions
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Sear paneer cubes in olive oil until golden on all sides; set aside.
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In the same pan, add grapes, balsamic vinegar, sugar, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer until the grapes burst and the sauce reduces.
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Return paneer to the pan and coat with the glaze.
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Garnish with fresh thyme or herbs and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
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Use feta or halloumi instead of paneer
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Add crushed nuts for texture
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Replace grapes with pomegranate seeds or cranberries
Storage/Reheating
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, substitute paneer with tofu.
Are green grapes a good alternative?
Yes, though red grapes offer more sweetness and depth.
Can I make the reduction ahead?
Yes, prepare and store it for up to 1 week.
Will the paneer become rubbery?
Only if overcooked. Sear briefly for best texture.
What can I serve this with?
Rice, flatbread, or couscous make excellent pairings.
Can I make it spicier?
Add more chili flakes or a touch of fresh chili.
Is balsamic vinegar necessary?
Yes, for the glaze effect. Red wine vinegar is a backup.
Can I grill the paneer?
Yes, grilled paneer adds a smoky depth.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer longer or add a cornstarch slurry if needed.
Can this be served cold?
It’s best served warm, but leftovers are tasty cold.
Conclusion
Glazed paneer with spiced grape reduction delivers a sophisticated twist on traditional flavors, combining sweet, tangy, and savory in a stunning vegetarian plate.
PrintGlazed Paneer with Spiced Grape Reduction
Golden seared paneer coated in a luscious, spiced grape reduction made with warm aromatics like cinnamon and star anise, creating a rich, sweet-savory fusion dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Searing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 250g paneer, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon ghee or olive oil
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup grape juice (unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 1 star anise
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh herbs (mint or basil), for garnish
Instructions
- Heat ghee or oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add paneer cubes and sear until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add halved grapes and sauté for 2–3 minutes until they soften.
- Add grape juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, cinnamon stick, star anise, chili flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir well.
- Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10–12 minutes, or until it reduces to a glossy glaze.
- Return paneer to the pan and gently toss to coat evenly with the reduction.
- Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Remove cinnamon and star anise.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.
Notes
- For a smokier flavor, grill the paneer instead of pan-frying.
- Substitute maple syrup for honey to make it vegan (if using vegan paneer).
- Use fresh, firm paneer to prevent crumbling during cooking.
- This dish pairs beautifully with saffron rice or herbed couscous.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: glazed paneer, spiced grape reduction, paneer recipes, vegetarian fusion, gourmet paneer
