Appetizers & Starters

Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka
Succulent cubes of paneer are marinated in a robust, spiced yogurt blend and roasted until beautifully charred. This classic Indian appetizer offers a perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors that melt in your mouth.

Prep

20m

Cook

15m

Serves

4


1 Ingredients

Qty Ingredient
500 g 500 g Paneer (Firm Cottage Cheese)
1 cup 240 ml Greek Yogurt (Hung Curd)
2 tbsp 15 g Gram Flour (Besan)
1 tbsp 15 g Ginger-Garlic Paste
2 tsp 10 g Kashmiri Red Chili Powder
1 tsp 5 g Garam Masala
1 tsp 5 g Chaat Masala
1 tbsp 2 g Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek)
1 tbsp 15 ml Lemon Juice
2 tbsp 30 ml Mustard Oil
1 large 150 g Bell Pepper (cubed)
1 large 100 g Red Onion (cubed)

2 Method

1

Step 1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the thick yogurt, gram flour, ginger-garlic paste, and all dry spices until smooth.

2

Step 2. Heat the mustard oil until smoking point, then carefully pour it into the marinade and whisk again to emulsify.

3

Step 3. Gently fold in the paneer cubes, bell peppers, and onions, ensuring every piece is coated thoroughly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

4

Step 4. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 400°F (200°C). If using an oven, line a baking tray with parchment paper.

5

Step 5. Thread the paneer and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between cheese and veggies.

6

Step 6. Place skewers on the tray and bake for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the edges are slightly charred.

7

Step 7. Garnish with a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of chaat masala before serving with green chutney.

💡 Chef's Tips

  • ·

    Use hung curd or very thick Greek yogurt to ensure the marinade sticks to the paneer.

  • ·

    To achieve a smoky flavor without a tandoor, place a piece of burning charcoal in a small bowl inside the marinade container and cover for 5 minutes.

  • ·

    Do not overcook the paneer as it will become rubbery and lose its softness.

  • ·

    Always soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.

? FAQ

Can I make Paneer Tikka on a stovetop?
Yes, you can use a non-stick tawa or grill pan over medium-high heat with a little oil until all sides are browned.
How do I make the paneer soft?
Do not over-bake it. If the paneer is very cold, soak it in warm water for 10 minutes before marinating.
Is Paneer Tikka gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe uses gram flour (besan), which is naturally gluten-free.
What is a good substitute for mustard oil?
You can use any neutral vegetable oil, though mustard oil provides the most authentic pungent flavor.

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