Paneer Tikka is a popular Indian appetizer made from marinated paneer (cottage cheese), grilled to perfection. It’s rich in protein, calcium, and flavors, making it a healthy and delicious choice.

Paneer Tikka is a popular Indian appetizer made with marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and grilled or baked to perfection. It’s flavorful, aromatic, and a favorite among vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Here’s a simple recipe to make Paneer Tikka at home:

Ingredients:

• 250 grams of paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 cup of thick yogurt
• 1 tablespoon of gram flour (besan)
• 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon of oil
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon of garam masala
• 1 teaspoon of chaat masala
• 1 teaspoon of cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 onion, cut into chunks
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the thick yogurt, gram flour, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, oil, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, chaat masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt until well combined.
2. Marinate the Paneer:
   • Add the paneer cubes, onion chunks, and bell pepper chunks to the marinade. Mix gently to coat the paneer and vegetables evenly with the marinade.
   • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. Preheat the Grill or Oven:
   • Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, or preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
4. Skewer the Paneer and Vegetables:
   • Thread the marinated paneer, onion, and bell pepper alternately onto skewers.
5. Cook the Paneer Tikka:
   • If using a grill: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer and vegetables are lightly charred and cooked through.
   • If using an oven: Place the skewers on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the paneer and vegetables are cooked and slightly charred.
6. Serve:
   • Transfer the Paneer Tikka to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and lemon wedges.
   • Serve hot with mint chutney or your favorite dipping sauce.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Paneer Tikka!