Paneer Tikka is a popular vegetarian dish from Indian cuisine. It features marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and assorted vegetables, skewered and grilled to perfection. The combination of smoky flavors and aromatic spices makes Paneer Tikka a delightful appetizer or a vegetarian option for barbecues and gatherings. At Indian Recipe Duniya, we present you with an authentic recipe to prepare Paneer Tikka at home.
Speciality of Paneer Tikka:
The speciality of Paneer Tikka lies in its succulent and lightly charred paneer cubes, combined with the vibrant flavors of the marinade. The marinade, made with yogurt and a blend of aromatic spices, adds a tangy and spicy kick to the dish. Paneer Tikka is a favorite among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians for its rich taste and versatility.
About Paneer Tikka Dish:
Paneer Tikka is a delectable Indian dish featuring marinated paneer cubes, bell peppers, and onions, infused with a blend of aromatic spices. This flavorful creation is either grilled or roasted to perfection, resulting in a smoky and tantalizing treat for the taste buds. Served hot, garnished with a hint of lemon juice and chaat masala, it’s a popular appetizer that never fails to satisfy cravings for rich and savory bites. Perfect for gatherings or as a standalone snack, Paneer Tikka is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine, celebrated for its delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Health Benefits of Homemade Paneer Tikka:
1. Rich in Protein: Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) is a primary ingredient in Paneer Tikka, providing a good source of high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
2. Calcium Boost: Paneer is also a significant source of calcium, promoting strong bone and teeth health. Consuming homemade Paneer Tikka contributes to your daily calcium intake.
3. Digestive Benefits: The marination process often involves yogurt and spices like cumin, which can aid digestion and promote a healthy gut.
4. Vitamins and Minerals: The inclusion of various spices not only enhances the flavor but also brings in a range of vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall well-being.
5. Controlled Cooking Methods: Homemade Paneer Tikka allows you to control the cooking methods, choosing healthier options like grilling or roasting over frying. This helps in reducing excess oil consumption.
6. Low in Carbohydrates: Paneer is naturally low in carbohydrates, making Paneer Tikka a suitable option for those following low-carb or keto diets.
7. Versatile Nutrient Profile: Bell peppers and onions used in the dish add vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, creating a well-rounded nutrient profile.
8. Reduced Sodium Content: By preparing Paneer Tikka at home, you can control the amount of salt in the marinade, helping to manage sodium intake for those monitoring their salt levels.
9. Suitable for Vegetarians: As a vegetarian option with ample protein, Paneer Tikka is an excellent alternative for those looking to meet their protein needs without consuming meat.
10. Satiety and Weight Management: The combination of protein and healthy fats in Paneer Tikka can contribute to a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management and reducing unhealthy snack cravings.
Best Homemade Paneer Tikka Recipe Video:
Quick and Easy Homemade Paneer Tikka Recipe Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp curd
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp roasted cumins powder
- 1/2 tsp chaat masala
- 1/2 tsp black salt
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp kasuri methi
- salt to taste
- 2 tsp kashmiri red chili powder
- 2 tbsp roasted gram flour
- 1 tsp ginger garlic paste
- 2 tbsp mustard oil
- 16 pcs of paneer cubes
- 16 pcs of shimla mirch cubes
- 16 pcs of onion peels
- Butter for Roasting
Delicious Homemade Paneer Tikka Recipe with Pictures:
Marination Process:
In a bowl, combine curd, black pepper powder, lemon juice, roasted cumin powder, chaat masala, black salt, garam masala, kasuri methi, salt, Kashmiri red chili powder, roasted gram flour, and ginger-garlic paste.
Heat mustard oil in a small pan and add it to the mixture.
Mix until it forms a smooth paste. If thick, add 1 tsp of curd.
Add paneer cubes, shimla mirch cubes, and onion peels.
Gently mix with your hands to preserve the softness of paneer.
Marinate for at least 20 minutes or refrigerate for 2 hours for better taste and flavour.
Cooking Process:
Method 1: Using Non-Stick Pan
On a non-stick pan, roast paneer, shimla mirch, and onion, flipping to cook all sides.
Optionally, add butter for enhanced flavor. Avoid overcooking to maintain paneer softness.
Method 2: Roasting on Gas Flame using Skewers
Cut raw potato into thick round pieces. Skewer one raw potato piece first, followed by paneer, shimla mirch, and onion, forming a layer. End the skewer with another raw potato piece.
Hold the skewer over high flame, rotating to cook evenly.
Roast until golden brown with visible burn marks, taking around 1 to 2 minutes per skewer.
Serving the Restaurant Style Paneer Tikka:
Sprinkle lemon juice and chaat masala on the paneer tikka. Serve it hot with chopped onion, sliced lemon, and your choice of green chutney or pudina chutney.
Pro Tips for Homemade Delicious Paneer Tikka:
1. Quality Ingredients: Start with fresh and high-quality paneer. The texture and taste of your Paneer Tikka greatly depend on the quality of the main ingredient.
2. Marination Time: Allow sufficient marination time for the paneer cubes. The longer they marinate, the more the flavors penetrate, resulting in a richer taste. Aim for at least 20 minutes, or refrigerate for an extended period for enhanced flavor.
3. Balanced Marinade: Achieve a well-balanced marinade by adjusting spice levels according to your preference. Taste the marinade before adding it to the paneer to ensure it suits your palate.
4. Use of Yogurt: Opt for thick yogurt in the marinade to coat the paneer effectively. Greek yogurt or strained yogurt works well, providing a creamy texture.
5. Hot Oil Infusion: Adding hot oil to the marinade enhances the overall flavor. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle when poured into the mixture, releasing the spices’ aroma.
6. Controlled Cooking Temperature: Whether using a non-stick pan or skewers on an open flame, maintain a medium heat for controlled cooking. This helps in achieving the desired smoky flavor without burning the outer layer.
7. Skewer Technique: When using skewers, place a raw potato piece at each end to prevent the paneer from sliding off during roasting. This ensures an even and efficient cooking process.
8. Even Sized Ingredients: Cut paneer, bell peppers, and onions into uniform-sized pieces. This ensures consistent cooking, preventing some pieces from being undercooked or overcooked.
9. Butter Basting: During cooking, baste the Paneer Tikka with a little butter for added richness and flavor. This step is particularly effective when grilling or roasting.
10. Fresh Lemon Finish: Just before serving, sprinkle fresh lemon juice over the Paneer Tikka. This not only adds a zesty kick but also enhances the overall freshness of the dish.
11. Garnish Creatively: Present your Paneer Tikka attractively by garnishing with chopped coriander, chaat masala, or additional spices. The visual appeal enhances the overall dining experience.
12. Serve Hot: For the best taste and texture, serve Paneer Tikka immediately after cooking. It’s at its most flavorful and succulent when enjoyed hot off the grill or pan.
Frequently Asked Questions on Homemade Paneer Tikka Recipe:
Can I use store-bought paneer for Paneer Tikka?
Absolutely! While fresh homemade paneer is ideal, store-bought paneer works well too. Just ensure it’s of good quality for the best results.
How long should I marinate the paneer?
Marinate paneer for a minimum of 20 minutes. For richer flavors, refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.
Can I use Greek yogurt for the marinade?
Yes, Greek yogurt or strained yogurt is an excellent choice. Its thick consistency helps coat the paneer effectively.
What’s the purpose of adding hot oil to the marinade?
Adding hot oil enhances the flavor by releasing the aromas of the spices. It contributes to a more robust and aromatic marinade.
Can I use a grill for Paneer Tikka?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor. Cook on medium heat and baste with butter for extra richness.
How can I prevent paneer from sticking to the pan during cooking?
Use a non-stick pan or grill and ensure it’s well-greased. Basting with a little butter also helps prevent sticking.
Can I make Paneer Tikka ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the marinated paneer in advance and cook it just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
Can I freeze marinated paneer for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the marinated paneer. Thaw it before cooking and ensure it comes to room temperature for even cooking.
How do I know when the paneer is cooked?
Paneer is cooked when it turns golden brown with visible grill marks. Avoid overcooking to maintain its soft texture.
Can I customize the spice level in the marinade?
Absolutely! Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preferences. Taste the marinade before adding it to the paneer.
What are some serving suggestions for Paneer Tikka?
Serve hot with mint chutney, sliced onions, and lemon wedges. It also makes a great addition to wraps or salads.
Nutritional Facts about Homemade Paneer Tikka:
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 125 grams)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
Recipe Card:
Delicious Paneer Tikka Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp curd
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp roasted cumins powder
- 1/2 tsp chaat masala
- 1/2 tsp black salt
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp kasuri methi
- salt to taste
- 2 tsp kashmiri red chili powder
- 2 tbsp roasted gram flour
- 1 tsp ginger garlic paste
- 2 tbsp mustard oil
- 16 pcs of paneer cubes
- 16 pcs of shimla mirch cubes
- 16 pcs of onion peels
- Butter for Roasting
Instructions
- Marination Process:In a bowl, combine curd, black pepper powder, lemon juice, roasted cumin powder, chaat masala, black salt, garam masala, kasuri methi, salt, Kashmiri red chili powder, roasted gram flour, and ginger-garlic paste.Heat mustard oil in a small pan and add it to the mixture. Mix until it forms a smooth paste. If thick, add 1 tsp of curd.Add paneer cubes, shimla mirch cubes, and onion peels. Gently mix with your hands to preserve the softness of paneer. Marinate for at least 20 minutes or refrigerate for 2 hours for better taste and flavour.
- Cooking Process:Method 1: Using Non-Stick PanOn a non-stick pan, roast paneer, shimla mirch, and onion, flipping to cook all sides. Optionally, add butter for enhanced flavor. Avoid overcooking to maintain paneer softness.Method 2: Roasting on Gas Flame using SkewersCut raw potato into thick round pieces. Skewer one raw potato piece first, followed by paneer, shimla mirch, and onion, forming a layer. End the skewer with another raw potato piece.Hold the skewer over high flame, rotating to cook evenly. Roast until golden brown with visible burn marks, taking around 1 to 2 minutes per skewer.
- Serving the Restaurant Style Paneer Tikka:Sprinkle lemon juice and chaat masala on the paneer tikka. Serve it hot with chopped onion, sliced lemon, and your choice of green chutney or pudina chutney.
Video
Takeaway:
Delight your taste buds with the tantalizing flavors of Paneer Tikka, a classic Indian dish that showcases marinated paneer and vegetables grilled to perfection. This recipe from Indian Recipe Duniya allows you to recreate the restaurant-style Paneer Tikka in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking for a flavorful appetizer, Paneer Tikka is sure to impress.
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