Food & Drink
Tandoori Paneer Tikka Recipe

Tandoori Paneer Tikka Recipe: A Flavorful Indian Delight
When it comes to Indian appetizers, few dishes can rival the universal appeal of tandoori paneer tikka. With its smoky flavor, bold spices, and soft cubes of marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese), paneer tikka is a showstopper on any table. Whether you’re hosting a party, craving a restaurant-style dish, or just want to treat yourself to something special, this tandoori paneer tikka recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Traditionally cooked in a clay oven called a tandoor, paneer tikka gets its distinct flavor and charred texture from the grilling process. However, you don’t need a tandoor to make it at home! With the right recipe and a grill, oven, or even a stovetop, you can enjoy the same authentic flavors.
In this article, we’ll guide you through an easy tandoori paneer tikka recipe, provide helpful tips for success, and share serving suggestions to make it a complete experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavors at Home: With a few simple ingredients, you can recreate the bold, smoky flavors of restaurant-style paneer tikka.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for parties.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice level, add veggies, or make it vegan by swapping paneer with tofu.
- Healthy and Delicious: Paneer tikka is a protein-rich, low-carb dish that’s baked or grilled instead of fried.
Ingredients for Tandoori Paneer Tikka Recipe
To make authentic paneer tikka, you’ll need fresh ingredients and a handful of Indian spices.
For the Marinade:
- Hung curd (thick yogurt): 1 cup (strained yogurt is ideal for a creamy marinade)
- Ginger-garlic paste: 2 tablespoons
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (for tanginess)
- Mustard oil: 1 tablespoon (for authentic smoky flavor)
- Besan (gram flour): 2 tablespoons (dry roasted for nutty flavor)
Spices:
- Kashmiri red chili powder: 1 teaspoon (for vibrant color without too much heat)
- Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cumin powder: 1 teaspoon
- Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
- Chaat masala: 1 teaspoon (for tangy flavor)
- Salt: To taste
For the Paneer Tikka Skewers:
- Paneer (cottage cheese): 400 grams, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Bell peppers: 2 (red, yellow, or green), diced into large chunks
- Onions: 2 medium, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Tomatoes: 2 (firm, deseeded, and cut into cubes)
- Wooden skewers: Soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning (if grilling)
Optional Garnishes:
- Lemon wedges, mint chutney, and onion rings
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Tandoori Paneer Tikka
Follow these steps to create the perfect paneer tikka, complete with its smoky, tandoori flavors.
Step 1: Prepare the Hung Curd
- To make hung curd, take plain yogurt and strain it using a muslin cloth or a fine strainer for 1-2 hours. This removes excess water, leaving thick yogurt for the marinade.
- If you’re short on time, Greek yogurt works as a quick alternative.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
- In a large mixing bowl, add the hung curd.
- Mix in ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and mustard oil.
- Add the roasted besan and all the spices (red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, coriander, garam masala, chaat masala, and salt).
- Whisk the mixture until smooth and creamy. The marinade should be thick enough to coat the paneer and vegetables.
Step 3: Marinate the Paneer and Vegetables
- Add the paneer cubes, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes to the marinade.
- Gently toss everything to ensure even coating. Be careful while mixing so the paneer doesn’t break.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate for 2-3 hours or overnight.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
- Thread the marinated paneer and vegetables onto wooden skewers, alternating between paneer, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
- Leave a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Paneer Tikka
Option 1: Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer and vegetables are lightly charred.
Option 2: Oven
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Arrange the skewers on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. For extra char, broil for 2 minutes at the end.
Option 3: Stovetop Grill Pan
- Heat a grill pan over medium heat and brush it with oil.
- Cook the skewers for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer and vegetables are evenly charred.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the paneer tikka skewers to a serving platter.
- Garnish with lemon wedges, mint chutney, and onion rings for a restaurant-style presentation.
- Serve hot and enjoy the smoky, flavorful delight!
Tips for Perfect Tandoori Paneer Tikka
- Use Fresh Paneer: Fresh, soft paneer is essential for the best texture and flavor. If store-bought paneer feels hard, soak it in warm water for 10 minutes before marinating.
- Don’t Skip Roasted Besan: Dry roasting the gram flour enhances its nutty flavor and helps the marinade stick to the paneer and vegetables.
- Avoid Overcooking: Paneer cooks quickly. Overcooking can make it dry and rubbery, so keep an eye on the skewers.
- Add Mustard Oil: A small amount of mustard oil adds a smoky, authentic flavor to the marinade.
- Use Soaked Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
Serving Suggestions for Tandoori Paneer Tikka
Paneer tikka is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some serving ideas:
1. As an Appetizer
- Serve with mint-coriander chutney and tamarind sauce.
- Add a side of pickled onions and lemon wedges for a tangy kick.
2. As a Main Course
- Pair with naan or roti and a bowl of dal makhani for a hearty meal.
- Serve alongside jeera rice or biryani for a flavorful combination.
3. In Wraps and Sandwiches
- Use paneer tikka as a filling for wraps or rolls with fresh veggies and sauces.
- Add it to sandwiches or burgers for a smoky twist.
4. As Part of a Platter
- Create a Mediterranean-inspired platter with paneer tikka, hummus, pita bread, and grilled vegetables.
Variations of Tandoori Paneer Tikka
- Malai Paneer Tikka: Add cream and grated cheese to the marinade for a richer, creamier version.
- Achari Paneer Tikka: Mix pickle spices or a spoonful of achar to the marinade for a tangy, spicy twist.
- Tandoori Tofu Tikka: Replace paneer with firm tofu for a vegan-friendly alternative.
- Spicy Paneer Tikka: Increase the amount of red chili powder or add chili flakes for an extra kick of heat.
Health Benefits of Tandoori Paneer Tikka
- Rich in Protein: Paneer is an excellent source of protein, making this dish a great option for vegetarians.
- Low in Carbs: Paneer tikka is a healthy, low-carb dish that fits well in keto or low-carb diets.
- Packed with Nutrients: The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish.
- Baked or Grilled: Unlike fried appetizers, paneer tikka is cooked with minimal oil, making it a healthier option.
FAQs
Can I make paneer tikka without an oven or grill?
Yes, you can cook it on a stovetop using a grill pan or non-stick tawa. Just brush the pan with oil and cook the skewers until charred.
How do I prevent paneer from sticking to the skewers?
Make sure the skewers are soaked in water for 30 minutes before use, and grease the grill or pan lightly with oil.
Can I make paneer tikka in advance?
Yes, you can marinate the paneer and vegetables a day in advance. Cook them fresh just before serving for the best flavor.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
To make it vegan, replace paneer with firm tofu and use plant-based yogurt for the marinade.
Conclusion
This tandoori paneer tikka recipe brings the authentic flavors of India to your home. With its bold spices, smoky aroma, and tender paneer, this dish is a surefire hit for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a party or a cozy dinner, it’s guaranteed to leave everyone craving for more.
So, gather your ingredients, fire up your grill, and treat yourself to the irresistible flavors of paneer tikka. Trust us—once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
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