Flavorful Paneer Tikka Recipe Easy Spicy Smoky Marinade Guide
A quick and easy paneer tikka recipe featuring a spicy smoky marinade that delivers authentic Indian flavors with a creamy, smoky, and spicy punch. Perfect for snacks, potlucks, or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
Scale
- 400 grams (14 oz) firm paneer, cubed
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon mustard oil (or vegetable oil as substitute)
- A handful fresh coriander, chopped
- Optional: 1 finely chopped green chili for extra heat
Instructions
- Cut 400 grams (14 oz) of firm paneer into roughly 1.5-inch (4 cm) cubes. If paneer is too soft, freeze for 10 minutes before cutting.
- In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, red chili powder, smoked paprika, garam masala, cumin powder, turmeric, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, salt, and mustard oil. Whisk until smooth and well-blended.
- Toss paneer cubes gently into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 2 hours.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush with oil to prevent sticking. If using oven, preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking tray with foil.
- Thread marinated paneer cubes onto skewers, leaving space between pieces. Optionally alternate with bell peppers or onions.
- Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes for even char. If oven roasting, bake for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Check that paneer is firm but soft inside with slight smoky char. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery texture.
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve immediately with mint chutney or yogurt dip.
Notes
Marinate paneer for at least 30 minutes but no more than 2 hours to avoid yogurt breaking down the cheese texture. Use smoked paprika for authentic smoky flavor without a smoker. Avoid overcooking paneer to prevent rubbery texture. For vegan version, substitute paneer with firm tofu and Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 15
Keywords: paneer tikka, spicy paneer, smoky marinade, Indian appetizer, grilled paneer, vegetarian, easy recipe