What is paneer tikka?
Paneer Tikka Recipe is a popular Indian appetizer and a beloved member of the tandoori cuisine. It is a vegetarian dish made with cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and yogurt, then grilled or baked to perfection. The term “Tikka” refers to small, bite-sized pieces of meat or cheese marinated in spices.
Paneer Tikka Recipe
Ingredients
- 250g Paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup Thick Yogurt (hung curd)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger-Garlic Paste
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 1 teaspoon Red Chili Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Powder
- 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder
- 1 tablespoon Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 1 tablespoon Oil
- Salt to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Instructions
- For the Marinade:In a mixing bowl, combine thick yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, kasuri methi, oil, and salt. For a smooth marinade, thoroughly combine.Make sure the paneer cubes are uniformly covered before adding them to the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours. This allows the flavors to infuse into the paneer.
- Grilling the Paneer Tikka:Preheat your grill or oven to 200°C (392°F). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling.
- Leave a little space between each piece as you thread the marinated paneer cubes onto the skewers.
- Place the skewers on the preheated grill or in the oven on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Grill or bake the paneer tikka for about 15-20 minutes or until the paneer is lightly charred and cooked through. You can brush some oil or ghee on the paneer while grilling for added moisture and flavor.
- Once the paneer tikka is done, remove it from the grill or oven and transfer it to a serving plate.
- Serving Suggestion:Paneer Tikka is best served hot and fresh. You can sprinkle some chaat masala on top and garnish with sliced onions and lemon wedges for a tangy twist. It goes exceptionally well with mint chutney or tamarind chutney.
- Enjoy the succulent and flavorful Paneer Tikka as a delightful appetizer or a delicious accompaniment to your main course!