Mexican Paneer & Corn Sliders

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These Mexican Paneer & Corn Sliders are a delightful fusion of Indian and Mexican cuisines.Layered with refreshing slaw, coriander chutney, creamy spicy sauce, and gooey cheese, these sliders are topped with a buttery mixture and a jalapeño slice, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect for any occasion, these vegetarian sliders are sure to impress with minimal effort!

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

Mexican Paneer Corn Mixture:

  • 250-300g paneer, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup corn kernels (roasted preferred)
  • 1 small red or yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 jalapeño, finely chopped
  • 1/2 bell pepper, finely chopped (any color)
  • 3-5 scallions, finely chopped
  • 1-2 tsp salt (to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/2-1 tbsp paprika (to taste)
  • 1.5 tsp cumin powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg powder
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
  • 1/8 tsp cinnamon powder
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp Mexican hot sauce

Creamy Spicy Sauce:

  • 4-6 tbsp mayonnaise
  • 2-3 tbsp Mexican hot sauce of your choice

Assembly:

  • 3/4 -1 cup shredded slaw mix
  • 1/2-1 cup coriander chutney
  • 3/4-1 cup shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend
  • 5-6 slices of pepper jack cheese
  • 12 savory butter slider buns
  • 1 jalapeño, cut into 12 thin slices

Butter Mixture:

  • 50g (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
  • 1 tbsp Mexican hot sauce
  • 1/2 tbsp sugar

Directions

  1. Prepare the Creamy Spicy Sauce:
    • In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Mexican hot sauce until well combined. Set aside.
  2. Make the Mexican Paneer Corn Mixture:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the paneer cubes, corn kernels, chopped jalapeño, onions, bell pepper, scallions, minced garlic, tomato paste, Mexican hot sauce, oregano, cumin powder, cinnamon powder, paprika, nutmeg powder, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Mix until everything is well coated and combined.
  3. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Assemble the Sliders:
    • Place the slider buns on a parchment-lined baking tray for easy assembly and cleanup.
    • Slice the slider buns horizontally in half.
    • On the bottom half of each bun, spread a layer of the creamy spicy sauce.
    • Top with a portion of the shredded slaw mix.
    • Place a slice of pepper jack cheese over the slaw.
    • Evenly distribute the Mexican paneer corn mixture over the cheese.
    • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend over the paneer mixture.
    • Spread the coriander chutney on the cut side of the top half of the buns.
    • Place the top half of the buns over the assembled sliders.
  5. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
    • Melt the unsalted butter in a small bowl.
    • Stir in the everything bagel seasoning, Mexican hot sauce, and sugar until well combined.
  6. Add Final Touches:
    • Using a toothpick, poke holes all over the top of the slider buns to allow the butter mixture to seep in.
    • Pour the butter mixture evenly over the sliders, ensuring the tops are well coated.
    • Place a thin slice of jalapeño on top of each slider and press down gently.
  7. Bake:
    • Cover the assembled sliders with aluminum foil.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through.
  8. Serve:
    • Remove from the oven and let the sliders rest for 3-5 minutes.
    • Remove the foil, cut the sliders apart, and serve warm.
    • These sliders are saucy and flavorful on their own, but you can serve them with additional condiments if desired.

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 280-320 kcal
  • Total Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 22g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Calcium: 200mg
  • Iron: 1.5mg
  • Vitamin A: 400 IU
  • Vitamin C: 8mg

The Inspiration Behind Mexican Paneer & Corn Sliders

The idea of fusing Mexican and Indian flavors is not new, but it remains an exciting culinary trend. Paneer, a fresh Indian cheese, serves as an excellent vegetarian substitute for meats typically used in Mexican dishes. Its mild flavor and firm texture allow it to absorb the bold spices and sauces used in the filling. Corn, a staple ingredient in Mexican cooking, pairs well with paneer, adding sweetness and a slight crunch to the sliders. The seasonings—like cumin, paprika, chili flakes, and oregano—bring warmth and depth to the dish, while the fresh slaw and jalapeños provide contrast with their bright, crisp flavors.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

  1. Vegetarian and Protein-Packed – Paneer is an excellent source of protein, making these sliders a satisfying meat-free option. The added corn enhances the texture and provides natural sweetness.
  2. Fusion of Cultures – The use of Mexican spices and sauces combined with Indian paneer creates a beautifully balanced dish that showcases the best of both cuisines.
  3. Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re serving these at a party, as an appetizer for a family meal, or as a fun dinner option, these sliders are sure to impress.
  4. Easy to Customize – You can easily adjust the spice level, add different cheeses, or swap ingredients to suit your preferences.
  5. Great Make-Ahead Option – The paneer and corn mixture can be prepared in advance, making it easy to assemble and bake right before serving.

How These Sliders Fit into a Balanced Diet

Paneer is a great source of protein and calcium, essential for bone health and muscle function. Corn provides fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. The use of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, scallions, and slaw mix adds vital vitamins and antioxidants. The cheese and creamy sauce contribute to the richness, but they can be adjusted for a lighter version. To make this dish healthier, you can use whole wheat slider buns instead of regular ones, opt for a low-fat cheese blend, and replace the mayonnaise in the sauce with Greek yogurt.

Tips for the Best Mexican Paneer & Corn Sliders

  1. Use Fresh Paneer – If possible, make homemade paneer or use a high-quality store-bought brand for the best texture and flavor.
  2. Roast the Corn – Roasting the corn before adding it to the mixture enhances its sweetness and adds a smoky depth.
  3. Adjust the Spice Level – If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of chili flakes and jalapeños. For more heat, add extra hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  4. Toast the Buns – Lightly toasting the slider buns before assembling ensures they hold up well and don’t become soggy.
  5. Don’t Skip the Butter Topping – Brushing the buns with a seasoned butter mixture before baking adds incredible flavor and helps achieve that crispy, golden-brown finish.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Cheese Options – While mozzarella and cheddar are great melting cheeses, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even crumbled queso fresco for a different flavor profile.
  • Vegan Alternative – Swap the paneer for extra-firm tofu and use vegan cheese to make this recipe completely plant-based.
  • Bread Choices – If slider buns aren’t available, use small brioche rolls, Hawaiian rolls, or even tortilla wraps for a different take.
  • Add More Vegetables – Diced mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach can be added to the filling for extra nutrients and texture.
  • Different Sauces – Instead of the creamy spicy sauce, try using chipotle mayo, avocado crema, or a simple yogurt-based dressing for a refreshing contrast.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders are best served fresh out of the oven, but they also hold up well for a couple of hours if kept warm. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:

  • With Dipping Sauces – Serve alongside extra coriander chutney, spicy salsa, or a cooling yogurt dip.
  • As a Side Dish – Pair these sliders with sweet potato fries, Mexican-style rice, or a fresh salad.
  • For a Party Platter – Arrange them on a large tray with extra garnishes like fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and pickled onions for a visually appealing spread.

Why You’ll Love These Sliders

These sliders are not only incredibly delicious but also fun to make and eat. They offer a unique combination of spice, creaminess, crunch, and cheesy goodness that makes them irresistible. The balance of textures—from the soft, buttery buns to the rich and flavorful paneer mixture, ensures every bite is satisfying. Even those who aren’t familiar with Indian or Mexican cuisine will enjoy these sliders because of their comforting and familiar flavors. The recipe is also great for kids since you can adjust the spice level to suit their taste buds.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the buns soggy.

Conclusion

Mexican Paneer & Corn Sliders are a fantastic fusion dish that brings together bold spices, creamy textures, and fresh flavors. They are easy to make, incredibly versatile, and perfect for any gathering or meal. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, Indian food, or just love trying new recipes, these sliders are a must-try.

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