Tandoori Paneer Tikka: The Ultimate Smoky, Spicy Indian Starter You Must Try
Tandoori Paneer Tikka: The Ultimate Smoky, Spicy Indian Starter You Must Try!
Tandoori Paneer Tikka: Discover how to make perfect Tandoori Paneer Tikka at home—smoky, spicy, and bursting with flavors! Learn the authentic Indian recipe, ingredients, and tips to make this restaurant-style paneer tikka in your oven or grill.
Tandoori Paneer Tikka is one of India’s most loved appetizers, known for its smoky aroma, spicy marinade, and irresistible charred flavor. A popular vegetarian delight, this dish perfectly captures the spirit of Indian street food and restaurant-style grills. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a family dinner, or simply craving something delicious, Tandoori Paneer Tikka is the perfect choice.
What is Tandoori Paneer Tikka?
Paneer Tikka is a North Indian dish where paneer cubes (Indian cottage cheese) are marinated in a spicy yogurt-based mixture, skewered along with onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, and then grilled or roasted until golden brown. The term “Tandoori” refers to the traditional clay oven called a tandoor, which gives the tikka its signature smoky flavor.
While authentic tandoors are used in Indian restaurants, you can easily recreate the same flavor at home using an oven, air fryer, or stovetop grill pan.
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Ingredients You’ll Need: Tandoori Paneer Tikka
- 250g paneer (cut into cubes)
- ½ cup thick yogurt (curd)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp mustard oil
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp besan (gram flour)
- Bell peppers and onions (cut into cubes)
Optional: a pinch of Kashmiri red chili powder for bright color and mild spice.
Step-by-Step Cooking Method: Tandoori Paneer Tikka
Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk yogurt until smooth. Add besan, mustard oil, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and all the dry spices. Mix well to create a creamy, flavorful marinade.
Marinate the Paneer: Add paneer cubes, onions, and bell peppers. Coat them evenly and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator) for deeper flavor.
Grilling Time:
In the Oven: Preheat to 220°C (430°F). Line a baking tray with foil, place the skewers, and bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
On the Stovetop: Heat a grill pan, brush with oil, and cook on medium flame until lightly charred.
In an Air Fryer: Air fry at 200°C for 10–12 minutes.
Add the Smoky Touch: For authentic tandoori flavor, use the dhungar method: place a small piece of hot charcoal in a bowl, drizzle with ghee, and cover the tikka with a lid for 2 minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve your Tandoori Paneer Tikka hot with mint chutney, lemon wedges, and onion rings. It also pairs beautifully with butter naan, tandoori roti, or even as a filling inside wraps and rolls.
- For parties, garnish with a sprinkle of chat masala and fresh coriander leaves for that irresistible street-style look.
Tips for the Perfect Paneer Tikka:
- Always use fresh and firm paneer to prevent it from breaking.
- Marinate longer for a richer flavor.
- Use hung curd to keep the marinade thick and clingy.
- Don’t overcook—paneer should be soft and juicy inside.
Health Benefits:
Tandoori Paneer Tikka is not just delicious—it’s nutritious too! Paneer is high in protein and calcium, making it ideal for vegetarians looking to add healthy protein to their diet. Using less oil and grilling instead of frying keeps it light and wholesome.
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Conclusion:
Tandoori Paneer Tikka is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of Indian flavors, blending smokiness, spice, and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re recreating a restaurant favorite or impressing your guests, this easy homemade recipe brings the joy of the tandoor right to your kitchen.