How to Make Delicious and Healthy Paneer Tikka at Home

Paneer Tikka Recipe

Paneer tikka is a popular Indian dish that is loved by many. It’s a delicious and healthy dish that can be made easily at home. In this article, we will guide you on how to make paneer tikka at home and share the health benefits, some FAQs, and a conclusion.

Table of  Content

• Origin of Paneer Tikka
• Ingredients Required
• Cooking Process
• Cooking Tips
• Health Benefits
• FAQ
• Conclusion

Origin of Paneer Tikka

Paneer Tikka is an Indian dish that originated in the Northern part of India. It is a vegetarian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) that is marinated in spices and grilled on skewers. The dish is known for its smoky flavor and is usually served with mint chutney.

Ingredients Required

• 400g Paneer (Indian Cottage Cheese)
• 1 cup Hung Curd
• 1 tsp Ginger Paste
• 1 tsp Garlic Paste
• 1 tsp Cumin Powder
• 1 tsp Coriander Powder
• 1 tsp Garam Masala
• 1 tsp Red Chili Powder
• Salt (as per taste)
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 2 tbsp Oil
• 1 Onion (cubed)
• 1 Capsicum (cubed)
• 1 Tomato (cubed)

Cooking Process

1. Start by preparing the marinade for the paneer. In a bowl, mix the hung curd, ginger paste, garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, red chili powder, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
2. Cut the paneer into small cubes, roughly 2-3 cm in size, and add them to the marinade. Mix well so that the paneer cubes are well coated with the marinade.
3. Let the paneer marinate for at least 30 minutes. You can also keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours to let the flavors develop.
4. While the paneer is marinating, prepare the vegetables for the skewers. Cut the onion, capsicum, and tomato into roughly the same size as the paneer cubes.
5. Once the paneer is marinated, it’s time to skewer the paneer and vegetables. Thread the paneer cubes onto the skewers, alternating with the onion, capsicum, and tomato. Make sure to leave a little bit of space between each piece so that the heat can circulate evenly.
6. Heat a grill pan or tawa over medium-high heat. Brush some oil on the pan to prevent the paneer from sticking. Once the pan is hot, place the skewers on the pan and let them cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the paneer is slightly charred and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Once the paneer tikka is cooked, remove the skewers from the pan and transfer them to a serving plate.
8. Serve the paneer tikka hot with some mint chutney and lemon wedges on the side.

Cooking Tips

• Use fresh and firm paneer to make the dish.
• Hang the curd in a muslin cloth for a few hours to remove excess water.
• Use a non-stick pan or grill to cook the skewers to prevent sticking.
• Soak the skewers in water for 30 minutes before using them to prevent burning.

Health Benefits of Paneer Tikka

Paneer is a good source of protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and repairing tissues in the body. Additionally, paneer is low in fat, making it a good choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. The spices used in the marinade for paneer tikka have their own health benefits as well. For example, turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and cumin can aid in digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is paneer tikka a healthy option?

A: Yes, paneer tikka can be a healthy option when prepared in a healthy way. The key is to avoid excess oil, cream, or butter in the marinade and to pair it with healthy sides like salad or vegetables.

Q: Is paneer tikka suitable for vegetarians?

A: Yes, paneer tikka is a vegetarian dish made with paneer, which is a type of cheese made from milk. It is a popular dish among vegetarians and can be a good source of protein in a vegetarian diet.

Q: Can I prepare paneer tikka without a grill or tandoor?

A: Yes, you can prepare paneer tikka in an oven or on a stovetop using a grill pan or a non-stick pan.

Conclusion

Paneer tikka is a popular and delicious Indian dish that is enjoyed by people all over the world. With its high protein and low-fat content, paneer tikka can be a healthy addition to a well-rounded diet. Additionally, it can be prepared in a variety of ways, making it a versatile and satisfying meal option. By following a few simple tips and techniques, anyone can learn to make delicious paneer tikka at home.