How to make Paneer tikka at Home!
Paneer Tikka: A Flavorful Delight of Grilled Paneer Cubes
Recipe
How to make Paneer tikka at home with Mint Chutney
Description
Savor the Irresistible Flavors of Paneer Tikka with Mint Chutney: Paneer Tikka is a popular Indian appetizer that has won the hearts of food lovers worldwide. It consists of marinated and grilled cubes of paneer (cottage cheese), bursting with aromatic spices and tastes. Paneer Tikka is the perfect appetizer for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations, served hot off the grill with a side of refreshing mint chutney.
| Cuisine | Indian |
| Prep Time | 1 hour (marination time) |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Serving | 4 serving |
| Course | Appetizer |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Rating | 4.5/5 |
Ingredient
1. For Paneer Tikka:
- 250g paneer (cottage cheese), cut into cubes
- 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, cut into chunks
- 1 cup thick yogurt
- 2 tablespoons chickpea flour (besan)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil
- Skewers, for grilling
2. For Mint Chutney:
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 green chili
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon yogurt
- Salt, to taste
Instruction
1. Prepare the marinade:
- In a bowl, combine yogurt, chickpea flour, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, red chili powder and salt.
- Mix well to make a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the paneer and vegetables:
- Add the paneer cubes, bell pepper pieces, and onion pieces to the marinade.
- Gently toss to coat the paneer and vegetables evenly with the marinade.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Skewer and Grill:
- Preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated paneer cubes, bell pepper chunks, and onion chunks onto skewers in alternating order.
- Brush the skewers with oil and place on the grill.
- Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the paneer and vegetables are lightly charred and cooked through.
4. Make the mint chutney and serve hot:
- In a blender or food processor, combine fresh mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, lemon juice, yogurt and salt.
- Blend until smooth, adding a little water if needed to achieve the desired consistency
- Remove the paneer tikka skewers from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
- Serve hot with freshly made mint chutney on the side.
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Skewers
- Blender or food processor
Nutrition Information
| Nutrition fact | Qty Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
Suitable For Diet
- Dairy (paneer, yogurt)
- Vegetarian
Tips and Tricks
- Use firm paneer for Paneer Tikka to prevent it from crumbling on the grill.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading the paneer and vegetables to prevent them from burning.
- You can add a teaspoon of chaat masala to the mint chutney for an extra burst of flavor.
Garnishing and Serving
- Garnish Paneer Tikka with a sprinkle of chaat masala and fresh cilantro leaves for a vibrant presentation. Serve it on a platter with lemon wedges and mint chutney for dipping.
How to store
- Paneer Tikka is best enjoyed fresh off the grill. However, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Keywords
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Conclusion
Paneer Tikka is a delightful appetizer that combines the richness of paneer with the bold flavors of Indian spices. Whether served as a starter at a dinner party or enjoyed as a snack with friends and family, Paneer Tikka never fails to impress with its irresistible taste and aroma.
How to make Paneer tikka at home–FAQs
Can I use store-bought paneer for Paneer Tikka?
Yes, you can use store-bought paneer for convenience. However, homemade paneer tends to have a softer texture and better flavor.
Can I grill Paneer Tikka on a stovetop grill pan?
Yes, you can grill Paneer Tikka on a stovetop grill pan if you don’t have an outdoor grill. Preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat and follow the same grilling instructions.
Can I make Mint Chutney in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Mint Chutney in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving.
What can I serve with Paneer Tikka?
Paneer Tikka pairs well with naan bread, roti, or rice. You can also serve it as a standalone appetizer with mint chutney and lemon wedges.
Is Paneer Tikka spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to your taste preference. This recipe has a moderate level of spice, but you can increase or decrease the amount of green chili and red chili powder to suit your palate.
What is Paneer Tikka?
Paneer Tikka is a popular Indian appetizer made from marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes that are skewered and grilled or baked until they are lightly charred. It is usually served with mint chutney and onions.
What ingredients are needed to make Paneer Tikka?
The key ingredients for Paneer Tikka are paneer, yogurt, gram flour (besan), lemon juice, and a mix of spices including red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and sometimes chat masala.
Is Paneer Tikka healthy?
Paneer Tikka can be a healthy option as it is high in protein and calcium. Using minimal oil and baking instead of frying can make it even healthier. However, it’s important to consume it in moderation, especially if you are watching your calorie intake.
Can Paneer Tikka be made without an oven?
Yes, Paneer Tikka can be made without an oven. You can use a grill pan or a regular non-stick pan on the stovetop to cook the marinated paneer. Another traditional method is to cook it in a tandoor, but since tandoors are not commonly found in home kitchens, grilling or pan-cooking are convenient alternatives.
How do you make Paneer Tikka in the oven?
To make Paneer Tikka in the oven:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Marinate the paneer cubes in a mixture of yogurt and spices for at least 30 minutes.
Skewer the marinated paneer along with vegetables like bell peppers and onions.
Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a grill rack.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the paneer is slightly charred.
Can Paneer Tikka be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze marinated paneer cubes for later use. Place the marinated paneer in an airtight container or a zip-lock bag and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator and then grill or bake as usual.
What are some good accompaniments for Paneer Tikka?
Paneer Tikka is often served with mint chutney, lemon wedges, and a side salad of sliced onions, cucumbers, and tomatoes. It can also be paired with naan or roti for a complete meal.
Can Paneer Tikka be made vegan?
Yes, Paneer Tikka can be made vegan by substituting paneer with firm tofu and using a dairy-free yogurt alternative, such as coconut or soy yogurt, for the marinade.
How can I make Paneer Tikka more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of Paneer Tikka:
Marinate the paneer for a longer time, preferably overnight.
Use fresh spices and herbs.
Add a little bit of mustard oil or ghee in the marinade for a rich flavor.
Incorporate a few drops of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to give a smoky aroma.
What is the best type of paneer to use for Paneer Tikka?
Use firm and fresh paneer for the best results. Homemade paneer is often preferred as it tends to be fresher and can be adjusted to the desired firmness. If using store-bought paneer, look for high-quality brands that do not have added preservatives.
