Paneer Tikka Skewers

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 12 min
🍽 Serves: 8

Paneer Tikka Skewers offer a delightful medley of flavors and textures, perfect for grilling season. This Indian-inspired dish combines marinated paneer and crisp vegetables, creating a savory experience like no other.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
  • Rich in flavors thanks to a well-spiced marinade.
  • Perfect for vegetarians and grill enthusiasts alike.
  • Can be easily customized with your choice of vegetables.

Ingredients

1 lb paneer
1 cup plain yogurt
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp gram flour (besan)
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 tsp red chili powder
Salt to taste
1 large red bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 large green bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 large onion, cut into chunks
Skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by whisking together yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, gram flour, and ginger-garlic paste in a large bowl. Add in the spices: garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Don’t forget a pinch of salt to taste! This marinade is where the magic happens, so make sure everything is mixed well.

Cut your paneer into 1-inch cubes and gently toss them in the marinade. Ensure that each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least an hour. If you have the time, let it sit overnight — it's worth it for the flavor boost!

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While that’s warming up, thread the marinated paneer cubes onto your soaked skewers, alternating with chunks of red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. This not only looks vibrant but also ensures every bite is balanced.

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll want to turn them occasionally to get that nice even char. The paneer should be golden and the veggies just slightly charred.

Once done, remove from the grill and serve them hot. They’re best enjoyed fresh off the grill!

Tips & Tricks

  • If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’re soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  • For a smokier flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade.
  • Adjust the chili powder according to your spice preference – start with less if you're sensitive to heat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these skewers with a fresh mint chutney for dipping. They also go well with naan or pita bread, creating a satisfying meal. If you're hosting a barbecue, serve them alongside grilled corn or a simple cucumber salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use tofu instead of paneer?
Yes, tofu can be used as a substitute. Opt for firm tofu and press it well before marinating.
What if I don’t have a grill?
You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil them in the oven for similar results.

Ingredients Explained

Paneer is the star of this dish, offering a creamy, mild base that absorbs the spices beautifully. Plain yogurt forms the marinade's base, helping to tenderize the paneer and adding a slight tang. Lemon juice brightens up the flavors, while vegetable oil helps the marinade cling to the paneer and vegetables. Gram flour (besan) adds a slight nuttiness and helps the marinade adhere better. The ginger-garlic paste brings a warm, aromatic depth. Garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder combine to create a rich, spicy aroma. Finally, the chunks of red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy paneer.

Simplified Instructions

1. Start by preparing the marinade: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, gram flour, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
2. Cut the paneer into 1-inch cubes and add them to the marinade. Ensure each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated paneer cubes, bell peppers, and onion chunks onto the skewers, alternating between the ingredients for colorful skewers.
5. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer is golden and the vegetables are slightly charred.
6. Remove from the grill and serve hot.

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