Paneer Tikka Recipe

Ingredients:

For Paneer Marinade:

• 400 grams paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 cup thick yogurt
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste

For Vegetables (Optional):

• 1 onion, cut into cubes
• 1 bell pepper (capsicum), cut into cubes
• 1 tomato, cut into cubes

Other Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Chaat masala, for garnishing
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnishing
• Onion rings and green chutney, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine thick yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric powder, garam masala powder, chaat masala, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to make the marinade.
2. Add paneer cubes to the marinade and gently toss to coat them evenly. Cover the bowl and let the paneer marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.
3. If using vegetables, you can marinate them separately in a similar marinade or simply skewer them alternately with the paneer cubes when assembling the tikka.
4. Preheat the grill or oven to 200°C (400°F). If using skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
5. Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto skewers, alternating with vegetables if using.
6. Brush the grill or baking tray with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill or baking tray.
7. Grill the paneer skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer is lightly charred and cooked through. If using an oven, bake for 15-20 minutes or until done, turning halfway through.
8. Once the paneer tikka is cooked, remove from the grill or oven and transfer to a serving plate.
9. Sprinkle some chaat masala and fresh coriander leaves over the paneer tikka for garnish.
10. Serve hot paneer tikka with lemon wedges, onion rings, and green chutney on the side.

Enjoy the delicious and flavorful Paneer Tikka, a favorite appetizer in North Indian cuisine!