Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare the Green Paste Base

   Add 1 tsp coriander seeds and 1 tsp cumin seeds to a hot pan. Lightly roast them until fragrant. Add 4-5 green chillies, 4 garlic cloves, and 2 inches of chopped ginger to the pan. Drizzle some oil and fry for a minute. Add a handful of coriander leaves (with stem) and 10-12 mint leaves. Add a pinch of salt. Fry well until the leaves wilt slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Transfer the mixture into a mixer jar and let it cool down completely. Blend into a smooth green paste.

2. 2.Prepare the Marinade

   In a large bowl, take 150 gms of thick yogurt. Add the ground green paste from step 1. Add 1 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp chili powder, salt to taste, 1 tsp dried fenugreek leaves, 1/4 tsp chaat masala, 1/2 tsp carom seeds (ajwain), and 2 tbsp gram flour (besan). Add some lemon juice and drizzle mustard oil. Combine all ingredients well until you get a rich green marinade.

3. 3.Marinate Paneer and Vegetables

   In another bowl, add 200 gms of cottage cheese (paneer) cut into cubes, 1 capsicum cut into cubes, and 1 large onion cut into cubes. Pour the prepared green marinade over the paneer and vegetables. Mix well, ensuring all paneer and vegetable pieces are thoroughly coated with the marinade.

4. 4.Charcoal Smoke Infusion (Dungar)

   Place a small metal rack with a burning charcoal piece in the center of the marinated mixture. Drizzle a little oil over the charcoal to create smoke. Immediately cover the bowl with a lid and let it infuse for 3-4 minutes to impart an authentic smoky flavor. Remove the charcoal and lid after 3-4 minutes.

5. 5.Skewer the Paneer Tikka

   Using pre-soaked wooden skewers (to prevent burning), gently thread the marinated paneer cubes, capsicum, and onion pieces alternately onto the skewers. Repeat until all the paneer and vegetables are skewered.

6. 6.Grill the Paneer Tikka

   Heat a griddle pan and drizzle some oil. Place the skewered paneer tikka onto the hot griddle pan. Grill from all sides for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer is lightly charred and the vegetables are cooked. Drizzle a little butter or oil while grilling for extra flavor and a nice golden char.

7. 7.Serve

   Dish out the perfectly grilled Hariyali Paneer Tikka skewers onto a serving plate. Sprinkle some chaat masala and fresh coriander leaves for garnish. Serve hot with mint chutney, lemon wedges, tomato, or onion salad for the ultimate flavor experience.