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Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is a delicious Indian appetiser made with marinated and grilled paneer cubes. Perfectly spiced and smoky, it’s a favourite for tandoori lovers.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

  • 200 g paneer cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • 3 tbsp thick curd hung curd or Greek yogurt preferred
  • 1 tbsp besan gram flour – helps the marinade stick better
  • 1 tbsp mustard oil – for authentic flavor
  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • ½ tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder – for vibrant color
  • ½ tsp hot red chili powder – for heat optional
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • ½ tsp cumin powder
  • ½ tsp chat masala
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Salt to taste

For the Skewers:

  • 1 small onion cut into chunks
  • 1 green bell pepper or any color, cubed
  • 1 tomato deseeded and cubed (optional)
  • Skewers – wooden soaked or metal

Instructions

  • Prepare the Marinade. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the thick curd until smooth and lump-free. Then add besan, mustard oil, ginger-garlic paste, and all the spices – turmeric, red chili powders, cumin, garam masala, chaat masala, and salt.
  • Once done, squeeze in lemon juice and mix well to form a smooth, thick marinade.
  • The besan adds body, and the mustard oil gives that signature smoky flavour that’s characteristic of tandoori dishes.
  • Add Paneer and Veggies. Gently add the paneer cubes, onion, bell peppers, and tomato chunks into the marinade. After that toss everything gently with your hands or a soft spatula to ensure an even coating.
  • Tip: Be careful not to break the paneer while mixing.
  • Marinate. After mixing everything well, cover the bowl with a lid or cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for deeper flavour).
    The longer you marinate, the better the taste.
    Marinated Paneer Cubes
  • Skewer the Paneer. Thread the marinated paneer cubes and veggies alternately onto skewers.
    You can use metal skewers for grilling or soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using them – this prevents burning.
  • Grill the Skewers. Depending on the equipment available, you can grill the paneer tikka in several ways:
    Paneer tikka on skewers getting grilled on barbecue
  • Using a Grill Pan (Stovetop): Heat a grill pan on medium heat and brush it with a little oil.
    Once your grill is hot, place the skewers and cook each side for 3–4 minutes.
    Rotate until all sides are nicely grilled and slightly charred.
  • Using an Outdoor Grill: Preheat the grill.
    Place the skewers directly on the grates and grill until charred and cooked, rotating halfway through.
  • Using an Oven: Preheat to 200°C (400°F).
    Line a baking tray with foil and place the skewers.
    Bake for 15–18 minutes, then broil/grill for 2–3 minutes for a smoky effect.