Paneer Tikka Recipe in Oven

Paneer Tikka is a popular Indian appetizer that is flavorful, smoky, and easy to make. This vegetarian Indian recipe is a healthier alternative because it is baked instead of fried. Traditionally, Paneer Tikka is cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), but you can easily make Paneer Tikka in an oven at home. In this Oven-Baked Paneer Tikka Recipe, paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes are marinated with spices and yogurt to enhance their taste. The skewered paneer cubes are then baked until crispy on the outside, achieving a delicious smoky and charred flavor. Follow this step-by-step guide to prepare homemade Paneer Tikka.

Ingredients You Will Need:

For the Marinade:

• 200g paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup thick yogurt (hung curd or Greek yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon gram flour (besan, chickpea flour)
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste (Adrak-Lahsun paste)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (yellow spice used for color and flavor)
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (cayenne pepper or paprika for mild heat)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala (Indian spice blend)
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder (ground cumin)
• 1 teaspoon chaat masala (tangy Indian spice blend, optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon mustard oil (or any cooking oil like olive oil)
• Salt to taste

Vegetables (Optional):

• 1/2 green bell pepper (capsicum), cut into cubes
• 1/2 red bell pepper (capsicum), cut into cubes
• 1/2 onion, cut into cubes

For Garnishing:

• Chaat masala (optional, adds tangy flavor)
• Lemon wedges
• Fresh coriander leaves (cilantro)

Paneer Tikka Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

1. Take a mixing bowl and add thick yogurt (curd) to it.
2. Use a whisk or spoon to stir the yogurt until smooth and creamy. This step helps remove any lumps and makes sure the marinade coats the paneer (Indian cottage cheese) evenly.
3. Add gram flour (chickpea flour), ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder (cayenne or paprika), garam masala, cumin powder, chaat masala, lemon juice, mustard oil (or olive oil), and salt.
4. Mix everything well to form a smooth and thick marinade.

Step 2: Marinate the Paneer and Vegetables

1. Add the paneer cubes, bell peppers, and onions to the marinade.
2. Gently mix until all the pieces are well coated.
3. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for the best results).

Step 3: Preheat the Oven to Cook

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) for about 10 minutes.
2. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or grease it lightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

1. Take skewers (wooden or metal) and alternate between paneer cubes, bell peppers, and onions.
2. Arrange the skewers on the baking tray, ensuring they are evenly spaced.

Step 5: Bake the Paneer Tikka in Oven

1. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes.
2. Halfway through cooking, carefully turn the skewers to the other side. This helps the paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cook evenly and get a nice golden color on all sides.
3. For a charred effect, cook the recipe for 2-3 more minutes on high heat using the grill setting for a slightly burnt and smoky look.

Step 6: Serve Paneer Tikka Recipe

1. Carefully remove the hot paneer tikka from the skewers.
2. Place them on a serving plate.
3. Sprinkle some chaat masala (Indian tangy spice mix, optional) on top for extra flavor.
4. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves (cilantro) and serve with lemon wedges and mint chutney (blended mint and yogurt dip).

Tips for Best Paneer Tikka:

• Use thick yogurt to ensure the marinade sticks well to the paneer.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning.
• For a smoky taste in your Paneer Tikka recipe, place a hot coal in a bowl with the paneer, add a little ghee (butter), and cover for a few minutes.

This oven-baked Paneer Tikka is perfect for parties, snacks, or as a side dish with Indian meals. Enjoy the rich flavors of this restaurant-style dish at home!