Description: Paneer Tikka is a popular Indian appetizer made from marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes that are skewered and grilled or baked until perfectly charred. This dish is known for its vibrant flavors, featuring a spicy and tangy marinade made from yogurt and a blend of spices. Paneer Tikka is often served with mint chutney and is a vegetarian favorite at Indian restaurants and parties.
History: Paneer Tikka has its roots in North Indian cuisine, particularly from the Punjab region. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor (a clay oven), this dish is a vegetarian adaptation of the classic Chicken Tikka, offering the same robust flavors but with paneer as the star ingredient. With the rise of vegetarianism in India and globally, Paneer Tikka has gained immense popularity as a delicious and protein-rich alternative to meat dishes. It’s now a staple in Indian cuisine, enjoyed by people of all dietary preferences.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus 1-2 hours marination time)
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 1 cup thick yogurt (curd)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil or any vegetable oil
For the Tikka:
- 400g paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large bell pepper (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large tomato, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Fresh coriander leaves and lemon wedges (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, chaat masala, salt, and mustard oil. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Marinate the Paneer and Vegetables:
- Add the paneer cubes, onion pieces, bell pepper pieces, and tomato pieces (if using) to the marinade. Gently toss to coat everything evenly. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse.
Skewer the Paneer and Vegetables:
- Preheat your grill, oven, or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the marinated paneer and vegetables alternately onto the skewers.
Cook the Paneer Tikka:
- Grill Method: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer and vegetables are lightly charred and cooked through.
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden and slightly charred.
- Stovetop Method: Heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the pan and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until charred on all sides.
Serve:
- Transfer the paneer tikka to a serving plate. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with lemon wedges and mint chutney on the side.
Final Thoughts: Paneer Tikka is a delightful dish that showcases the rich flavors of Indian cuisine while being easy to prepare at home. The process of marinating and grilling paneer highlights its versatility as a vegetarian protein, while the vibrant colors and smoky, spicy flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. Whether served at parties, barbecues, or as a starter to an Indian feast, Paneer Tikka is a dish that never fails to impress. Its popularity and simplicity make it a favorite among those who appreciate bold and authentic flavors, offering a taste of India that is both satisfying and memorable.