Paneer Tikka - Pan Roasted

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade Base

In a clear glass bowl, add 1/2 cup of thick curd/yogurt. Then add 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp red chilli powder, 1/2 tsp coriander powder, 1/2 tsp cumin powder, 1/2 tsp garam masala, 1/8 tsp carom seeds (ajwain), 1 tsp oil, 1 tsp ginger garlic paste, and salt to taste. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the bowl.

Step 2: Mix the Marinade

Using a spoon, thoroughly mix all the added spices and ingredients with the curd until a smooth, well-combined marinade paste is formed.

Step 3: Add Besan and Mix

Add 1 1/2 tsp of besan (gram flour) to the marinade mixture. Mix well again until the besan is fully incorporated and the marinade is smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add Paneer and Vegetables

Add 1/2 diced onion, 1/2 each of yellow, red, and green cubed capsicum, and 250g of paneer (cottage cheese) cubes into the bowl with the marinade.

Step 5: Coat and Marinate

Gently mix the paneer and vegetables with the marinade using a spoon or your hands, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. Marinate the mixture and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Skewer the Ingredients

After marination, take wooden skewers. Arrange the marinated paneer and vegetables alternately on the skewers. Typically, place 2 paneer cubes per skewer, alternating with 2-3 pieces of vegetables (capsicum and onion). Repeat the process for all the paneer and vegetables.

Step 7: Roast on Hot Tawa

Heat a tawa (flat griddle) on a medium flame. Once hot, place the prepared paneer tikka skewers on the tawa. Drizzle about 1 tsp of oil over the skewers.

Step 8: Cook Evenly

Roast the paneer tikka on medium flame. Rotate the skewers often to ensure all sides of the paneer and vegetables cook evenly and develop a golden brown, slightly charred appearance. Continue roasting until cooked through and nicely browned.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once the paneer tikka is cooked, remove the skewers from the tawa and place them on a serving plate. Sprinkle some chaat masala over the hot paneer tikka for an extra tangy flavor.

Step 10: Enjoy Your Paneer Tikka

The delicious pan-roasted paneer tikka is now ready to be enjoyed as an appetizer or snack.

• For best results, marinate the paneer and vegetables for at least 30 minutes, or even longer (up to a few hours) in the refrigerator.

• Ensure the tawa is hot before placing the skewers to get a good sear.

• Rotate the skewers frequently to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides.

• Add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms.

• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing red chilli powder.

• For a smoky flavor, you can grill the paneer tikka over an open flame or in an oven.