Paneer Tikka
Grilled cubes of paneer marinated in a zesty blend of yogurt and spices, kissed by a smoky char and bursting with flavor.
Total: 35 minPrep: 20 minCook: 15 minServes 4Difficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1 pound paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- Salt to taste
- Skewers (metal or presoaked wooden)
Steps
- 1 In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne, paprika, garlic, and ginger until smooth.
- 2 Add paneer cubes to the marinade, ensuring they're well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- 3 Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- 4 Thread marinated paneer onto skewers.
- 5 Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly charred and heated through.
- 6 Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Skewers
Variations
- Add bell peppers and onions to the skewers for a veggie-packed version.
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
Substitutions
- Greek yogurt can replace plain yogurt for a tangier taste.
- If paneer is unavailable, tofu can be used with a firmer texture.
Pairings
- Mint chutney
- Tamarind sauce
Nutrition
Calories:
250 kcal
Fat:
16g fat
Carbs:
5g carbohydrates
Protein:
18g protein
Fiber:
1g fiber
Sugar:
2g sugar
Sodium:
400mg sodium
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a splash of water mixed with chat masala to the grill while cooking for a smoky tang.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped green chilies to the marinade.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet to restore texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with naan bread and a cooling cucumber raita.
- Pairs wonderfully with a side of basmati rice.
FAQ
Can I use wooden skewers?
Yes, but soak them in water for 30 minutes first to prevent burning.
Can I cook this in the oven?
Absolutely, preheat to 400°F and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.