Paneer Tikka is an iconic Indian appetizer that has won hearts around the world with its succulent, marinated chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) grilled to perfection. Whether you're a vegetarian or a meat lover, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. Today, we're going to dive into the world of Paneer Tikka and learn how to make it from scratch, right in your own kitchen.
For the Marinade:
250g of paneer (cottage cheese), cut into cubes
1/2 cup of thick yogurt
1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
1 tablespoon of red chili powder
1/2 tablespoon of turmeric powder
1 tablespoon of coriander powder
1/2 tablespoon of garam masala
1 tablespoon of cumin powder
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
For the Tikkas:
Bell peppers (capsicum), red and green, cut into chunks
Red onions, cut into chunks
Skewers, wooden or metal (if using wooden, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
Instructions:
Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, cumin powder, lemon juice, salt, and vegetable oil. Mix well to form a smooth paste.
Marinate the Paneer:
Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and gently coat them with the mixture. Ensure each piece is well covered. Allow the paneer to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, refrigerate it for a few hours to let the flavors meld together.
Assemble the Tikkas:
Preheat your grill or oven to 200°C (392°F). If using skewers, thread the marinated paneer, bell peppers, and onions onto them alternately.
Grill the Tikkas:
Grease the grill grates or baking tray lightly to prevent sticking. Place the skewers or paneer pieces on the grill or in the oven and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. You'll know they're ready when they have a beautiful char and are slightly crispy on the outside.
Serve Hot:
Once cooked, remove the Paneer Tikka from the grill or oven. Garnish with a sprinkle of chaat masala and fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with mint chutney and lemon wedges.
Tips for Perfect Paneer Tikka:
Use fresh paneer for the best results. Homemade paneer is a great option if available.
Don't rush the marination process. Let the paneer absorb all the delicious flavors.
You can customize the marinade by adjusting the spice level to your preference.
Experiment with different vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for added variety.
If you don't have a grill or oven, you can also make Paneer Tikka on a stovetop using a griddle or non-stick pan.
Conclusion
Homemade Paneer Tikka is a mouthwatering dish that's perfect for gatherings, parties, or just a cozy night in. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can recreate the magic of this Indian classic in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your grill, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible flavors of Paneer Tikka! Your taste buds will thank you.
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