Paneer Tikka is a classic Indian dish featuring cubes of paneer marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture, skewered with vegetables, and cooked to perfection. Traditionally cooked in a tandoor, this recipe brings the smoky, restaurant-style flavor right to your kitchen using a grill, oven, or stovetop. It’s an ideal starter for parties or a delicious accompaniment to a main course.
Ingredients
- 200g paneer cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup thick yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon chaat masala
- 1 teaspoon kasuri methi
- 1 tablespoon mustard oil (or any vegetable oil)
- Salt to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon
- For the Skewers: 1 medium onion cut into squares
- 1 medium capsicum (bell pepper) cut into squares
- 1 medium tomato deseeded and cut into squares
- Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 15-20 minutes)
Step By Step Guide
Prepare The Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Add ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, chaat masala, kasuri methi, mustard oil, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well. Gently toss the paneer cubes, onion, capsicum, and tomato pieces in the marinade. Ensure they are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
Assemble The Skewers
Take the soaked bamboo skewers and alternately thread the marinated paneer, onion, capsicum, and tomato. Repeat until the skewer is full, leaving some space at the ends.
Cook The Paneer Tikka
Heat a non-stick grill pan or tawa and brush it with oil. Place the skewers on the pan and cook on medium heat, turning occasionally until the paneer and vegetables are charred and cooked evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Sprinkle chaat masala and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the skewers before serving. Serve hot with mint chutney, onion rings, and lemon wedges.
Pro Tips
Use fresh, firm paneer to prevent it from breaking while marinating and cooking. To replicate the smoky tandoor flavor, place a lit charcoal piece in a bowl, pour a few drops of oil on it, and place it in the marinade bowl. Cover for 5-10 minutes. Ensure the yogurt marinade is thick to avoid dripping while cooking.
