Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is usually a dry and fried version of cottage cheese (Paneer) chunks. The paneer cubes are either fried on a grill or you can also fry it on your regular tawa. Some people also cook it in an oven but it tastes the best when fried on a grill or heated in a smoker. Moreover, you can also add tandoor masala to give it an authentic tandoor taste.

The paneer cubes or chunks are pierced one after another in a skewer and onion or tomato rings are placed in between before frying them. It proves to be a sizzling appetizer and is mostly eaten in camp parties or just behind a farmhouse on a chilly winter evening. You can make this recipe more sizzling by sprinkling it spices and garam masala or chat masala powders.

Before frying, the paneer pieces are marinated in a mixture of curd, spices, and salt so that all the ingredients get balanced and absorbed in the paneer cubes. Some people also use yogurt instead of curd but you will have to strain the yogurt if it is not thick enough. Use preheated oven, grill or frying pan to prepare this sizzling appetizer in no time!

Add a little bit oil on the grill or frying pan to avoid the paneer cubes from getting burnt. Also, always use non-stick frying pans as your panner cubes will not stick on them while frying.

It proves to be a perfect dish for non-vegetarian since it tastes almost as good as chicken or meat tikkas. Some people also make masala paneer tikka which can be eaten as a side dish as well. Paneer Tikka is packed with the wholesome goodness of paneer and innate qualities of spices. Therefore, you cannot miss out on eating them even if you are on a diet!

5 from 3 votes

Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is packed with the wholesome goodness of paneer and innate qualities of spices.

Prep Time2 hours hrs

Cook Time15 minutes mins

Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine: Indian

Keyword: paneer

Ingredients

• 500 g Paneer cubed
• 2 tbsp Capsicum chopped
• 2 tbsp Onion chopped
• 2 tbsp Tomatoes chopped
• 2 tbsp Carrots
• 1 cup Hung Curd
• 2 tbsp Ginger Garlic Paste
• 2 tsp Red Chilli Powder
• 1 tsp Tandoori Masala Powder
• 1 tsp Garam Masala Powder
• 1 tsp Chaat Masala Powder
• 1 tsp Cumin Seed Powder
• handful Coriander Leaves finely chopped
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 tbsp Oil
• few Wooden Skewers soaked in water for 45 minutes

Instructions

• Combine curd, red chilli powder, garam masala powder, ginger garlic paste, tandoori masala powder, coriander leaves and salt in a bowl.
• Mix well.
• Add the paneer cubes and keep aside for 1 to 2 hours.
• Heat oil and 1 tsp butter in a pan over medium flame.
• Fry the marinated paneer pieces till golden brown.
• Remove and transfer to a plate.
• Add the remaining butter to the pan.
• Saute the capsicum, tomatoes, onion and carrots for a minute or two.
• Add chaat masala powder and salt.
• Stir well and simmer for a minute or two.
• Spoon this over the paneer pieces.
• Serve with green chutney.

Notes

For an alternate method to make Paneer Tikka Kabab, check out the instructions below:

Follow steps 1 to 3 from above.

1. Skewer the marinated paneer and the vegetables as per choice. Each skewer to have 2 or 3 paneer pieces.
2. Place the skewers in a preheated grill.
3. Brush with the remaining butter and grill till the paneer pieces are golden and vegetables are tender.
4. The paneer should not be overcooked otherwise it will become rubbery.
5. Transfer to a plate and remove the skewers.
6. Sprinkle chaat masala on top.
7. Serve with green chutney.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Paneer Tikka

Can I use store-bought paneer for Paneer Tikka?

Absolutely! While homemade paneer is delicious, you can use store-bought paneer for Paneer Tikka. Just make sure to choose a firm, good-quality paneer that doesn’t crumble easily. Cut the paneer into cubes or slices and marinate and grill as you would with homemade paneer. The marination and spices will add incredible flavour to the paneer, making it a delicious appetizer or snack.

Can I make Paneer Tikka on a stovetop?

Yes, you can make Paneer Tikka on a stovetop if you don’t have access to a grill or oven. Use a non-stick pan or a cast-iron skillet to cook the paneer. Heat the pan over medium heat, add some oil, and place the marinated paneer pieces on the pan. Cook until they turn golden brown and slightly charred on both sides. This stovetop method is a great alternative that yields flavorful and delicious Paneer Tikka.

What are some suitable dipping sauces or accompaniments for Paneer Tikka?

Paneer Tikka is often served with dipping sauces and accompaniments that complement its flavours. Popular options include mint chutney, tamarind chutney, yoghurt-based sauces like raita or mint yoghurt dip, and even tomato ketchup for those who prefer a tangy-sweet flavour. You can also serve Paneer Tikka with fresh salad or onion rings for added crunch and freshness.

Can I use different vegetables along with paneer for Tikka?

Definitely! Paneer Tikka can be customized to include a variety of vegetables along with paneer. Add bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, or pineapple to the skewers for a colorful and flavorful variation. The vegetables should be cut into chunks or slices and marinated along with the paneer. The combination of paneer and vegetables adds a delightful contrast of textures and flavours.

Can I bake Paneer Tikka instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake Paneer Tikka in the oven if you prefer a healthier cooking method or don’t have access to a grill. Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature and arrange the marinated paneer and vegetables on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake until the paneer is golden brown and the vegetables are cooked through. Baking will give the paneer a slightly different texture but will still be delicious and flavorful.