Paneer Tikka Recipe

Paneer Tikka is one of the most popular vegetarian starters in Indian cuisine, loved for its smoky flavor, bold spices, and succulent texture. Made by marinating cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with yogurt and spices, then grilling or roasting them to perfection, this dish is perfect for gatherings, BBQs, or even as a light meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-style taste at home.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 200g paneer (cut into 1½-inch cubes)
• 1/2 cup thick curd/yogurt (hung curd works best)
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp chaat masala
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp gram flour (besan) – optional, for a thicker marinade
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp mustard oil or any cooking oil

For Grilling:

• 1 onion (cut into cubes)
• 1 bell pepper (any color, cut into cubes)
• 1 tomato (firm, deseeded, and cubed)
• Butter or oil for brushing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, whisk the curd until smooth. Add ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, chaat masala, lemon juice, salt, and mustard oil. Add gram flour if you prefer a thicker coating. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.

2. Marinate the Paneer

Add the paneer cubes, onion, bell pepper, and tomato to the marinade. Gently coat everything evenly without breaking the paneer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).

3. Skewer and Grill

Thread the marinated paneer and vegetables alternately on skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.

• Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Place skewers on a greased baking tray lined with foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for a charred effect.
• Stovetop/Tawa Method: Heat a grill pan or tawa with a little oil. Cook the skewers on medium-high heat, turning occasionally until golden and slightly charred.
• Air Fryer: Air fry at 180°C (356°F) for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

4. Serve

Brush the hot paneer tikka with a little melted butter and sprinkle some chaat masala. Serve with green chutney, lemon wedges, and onion rings.

Tips & Variations

• Use hung curd to avoid a runny marinade.
• Mustard oil adds authentic flavor but can be replaced with olive oil.
• You can also use mushrooms, zucchini, or baby corn for variety.
• For vegan paneer tikka, substitute paneer with tofu and use plant-based yogurt.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare at home with pantry staples
• Customizable with your favorite veggies
• Perfect as a snack, starter, or side dish
• Tastes just like what you’d get at an Indian restaurant!

Paneer Tikka is a timeless Indian favorite that never fails to impress. With the right marinade and cooking method, you can create a delightful dish that’s rich in flavor, texture, and aroma. Whether served at parties or enjoyed on a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

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