Paneer Tikka is a popular Indian dish that is loved by both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. This flavorful appetizer is made with cubes of paneer (a type of Indian cheese) marinated in a spicy yogurt mixture and grilled to perfection. The result is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Paneer Tikka for 4 portions:
- 500g paneer, cut into cubes
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 tbsp ginger paste
- 1 tbsp garlic paste
- 1 tbsp cumin powder
- 1 tbsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp red chilli powder
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 onion, cut into cubes
- 1 bell pepper, cut into cubes
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, red chilli powder, lemon juice, oil, and salt to taste.
- Add paneer cubes, onion, and bell pepper to the bowl and mix well so that the marinade coats everything evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. If using a grill, skewer the paneer, onion, and bell pepper alternatively. If using an oven, place the paneer, onion, and bell pepper on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Grill or bake the paneer tikka for 8-10 minutes or until the paneer is golden brown and the vegetables are slightly charred.
- Serve the paneer tikka hot with mint chutney and sliced onions.
Vegetarian/Vegan Variation
To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute paneer with tofu or any other vegan cheese of your choice. You can also use a vegan yogurt alternative in place of regular yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Paneer Tikka is traditionally served as an appetizer, but it can also be served as a main dish with some naan bread or rice. This dish pairs well with mint chutney, sliced onions, and a fresh salad.
Health Benefits
Paneer Tikka is a high-protein dish that is perfect for vegetarians and vegans who are looking to add more protein into their diet. Paneer is a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health. The spices used in this recipe, such as turmeric and cumin, are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Conclusion
Paneer Tikka is a delicious and easy-to-make Indian dish that is perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. This recipe is full of flavor and is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main dish, this dish is a great addition to any Indian meal.
FAQ
What is Paneer Tikka?
Paneer Tikka is a popular Indian appetizer made by marinating paneer cheese in a spiced yogurt mixture and then grilling or baking until golden brown.
What is paneer cheese?
Paneer cheese is a fresh, unripened cheese commonly used in Indian cuisine. It is made by curdling heated milk with lemon juice or vinegar and then straining the curds.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While paneer cheese is traditionally used for Paneer Tikka, you can substitute it with a firm, non-melting cheese like halloumi or tofu for a vegan option.
Can I make Paneer Tikka in the oven?
Yes, you can make Paneer Tikka in the oven. Simply preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the marinated paneer cubes on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make Paneer Tikka without a grill or oven?
Yes, you can make Paneer Tikka on a stovetop by pan-frying the marinated paneer cubes in a little oil until golden brown on all sides.
How long should I marinate the paneer for?
For best results, marinate the paneer for at least 30 minutes, but ideally for a few hours or overnight to allow the flavors to develop.
Can I freeze Paneer Tikka?
Yes, you can freeze Paneer Tikka. Simply place the cooked and cooled paneer cubes in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What should I serve with Paneer Tikka?
Paneer Tikka is often served with mint chutney or tamarind chutney, as well as naan bread or basmati rice.
Can I make Paneer Tikka ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Paneer Tikka ahead of time by marinating the paneer and storing it in the refrigerator until ready to grill or bake. Cooked Paneer Tikka can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
How do I prevent the paneer from sticking to the grill?
To prevent the paneer from sticking to the grill, lightly oil the grates before grilling and use a metal spatula to flip the paneer cubes instead of tongs, which can cause them to break apart.
