Introduction
Undoubtedly, Paneer Tikka is one of the most popular and flavorful vegetarian dishes in Indian cuisine. Not only is it smoky, spicy, and aromatic, but it also delivers a perfect balance of marinated paneer, tangy flavors, and charred edges. Moreover, this dish is a fantastic vegetarian alternative to chicken tikka, making it ideal for parties, BBQ nights, or even a simple home-cooked meal. Most importantly, it can be cooked in an oven, on a stovetop, or a tandoor, making it easy to prepare at home.
Why is Paneer Tikka Special?
Certainly, Paneer Tikka stands out among other vegetarian dishes for several reasons:
- First and foremost, it is infused with rich, smoky, and tangy flavors.
- In addition, the yogurt-based marinade makes the paneer soft and flavorful.
- Moreover, it is a high-protein vegetarian appetizer, making it a healthy choice.
- Above all, it can be cooked in multiple ways—grilled, tandoori-style, or pan-fried.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into this restaurant-style Paneer Tikka recipe!
Ingredients for Paneer Tikka
For Marinating the Paneer:
- First, take 250g paneer (cubed)
- Then, add ½ cup thick yogurt
- Additionally, mix in 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Furthermore, add 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- After that, sprinkle 1 tsp red chili powder
- Moreover, add 1 tsp garam masala
- Then, mix in ½ tsp turmeric powder
- Additionally, blend in 1 tsp cumin powder
- Furthermore, add ½ tsp black salt (for extra taste)
- Lastly, drizzle 1 tbsp mustard oil and mix well
For the Vegetable Skewers:
- First, take 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green – cut into cubes)
- Then, add 1 onion (cut into squares)
- Additionally, take 1 tomato (cut into cubes)
- Furthermore, mix the veggies into the paneer marinade
For Cooking:
- First, preheat the oven, tandoor, or grill
- Then, skewer the marinated paneer and vegetables
- Additionally, brush with oil or melted butter before grilling
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
- First, take a large bowl and add yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and mustard oil.
- Then, mix in red chili powder, garam masala, cumin powder, turmeric, and black salt.
- Additionally, whisk well to form a smooth, thick marinade.
Step 2: Marinate the Paneer & Vegetables
- First, add paneer cubes, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes to the marinade.
- Then, coat everything evenly and let it rest for at least 1 hour (overnight for best results).
Step 3: Skewer & Cook the Paneer Tikka
Oven Method:
- First, preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Then, thread the marinated paneer and vegetables onto skewers.
- Additionally, place them on a baking tray and brush with oil or melted butter.
- Furthermore, bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Lastly, broil for 2-3 minutes to get a smoky char.
Stovetop Method:
- First, heat a grill pan or tawa over medium heat.
- Then, drizzle some oil and place the paneer and vegetables on the pan.
- Additionally, cook for 3-4 minutes per side, flipping occasionally.
- Lastly, ensure a slight char on the edges before removing from the pan.
Tandoor or Outdoor Grill Method:
- First, preheat the grill or tandoor.
- Then, place the paneer skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes.
- Additionally, turn occasionally to ensure even charring.
- Lastly, brush with melted butter and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- First and foremost, serve Paneer Tikka hot with mint chutney and onion rings.
- Additionally, pair it with butter naan or roomali roti for a complete meal.
- Furthermore, enjoy with a side of pickled onions and lemon wedges.
- Lastly, serve with a cooling glass of mango lassi or buttermilk to balance the spice.
Final Thoughts
Without a doubt, Paneer Tikka is a vegetarian delight that is packed with smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors. Whether you prepare it for a BBQ, party, or weekend meal, this dish never fails to impress. Most importantly, the soft marinated paneer combined with grilled vegetables makes it an irresistible starter.
So, why wait? Try this delicious Paneer Tikka recipe today and let us know how it turned out!
🔥 For more vegetarian dishes, stay tuned to ShasKitchen.in!
