Amritsari Paneer Tikka – Spicy Punjabi Grilled Paneer

 Amritsari Paneer Tikka

Amritsari Paneer Tikka is a flavorful North Indian appetizer made with paneer marinated in yogurt, spices, and gram flour, then grilled or pan-cooked until lightly charred. It is crispy around the edges, soft inside, and packed with aromatic spices.

Ingredients

For the Paneer

- 400 g paneer, cut into cubes

- ½ cup thick yogurt

- 2 tbsp gram flour (besan)

- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

- 1 tsp Kashmiri red chilli powder

- ½ tsp turmeric powder

- 1 tsp coriander powder

- ½ tsp cumin powder

- ½ tsp garam masala

- ½ tsp ajwain

- 1 tbsp lemon juice

- 1 tbsp oil

- Salt to taste

Optional Vegetables

- 1 small onion, cut into squares

- 1 small capsicum, cut into squares

For Serving

- Mint chutney

- Lemon wedges

- Sliced onions

How to Make Amritsari Paneer Tikka

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, gram flour, ginger-garlic paste, chilli powder, turmeric, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, ajwain, lemon juice, oil, and salt.

Mix until you get a thick, smooth marinade.

2. Marinate the Paneer

Add the paneer cubes, onion, and capsicum to the marinade. Gently coat everything without breaking the paneer.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Cook the Tikka

Heat a grill pan or non-stick pan and lightly brush it with oil.

Place the marinated paneer and vegetables on the pan. Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the paneer develops golden-brown edges and light char marks.

4. Serve

Transfer the paneer tikka to a serving plate. Sprinkle with a little chaat masala if desired.

Serve hot with mint chutney, lemon wedges, and sliced onions.

Tips

- Use firm paneer so the cubes don't break while cooking.

- Don't skip the resting time; it helps the flavors penetrate the paneer.

- Cook over medium heat to get a slight char without burning the marinade.

- For a smoky flavor, the tikka can also be cooked on a grill or in an oven.

Serving Suggestion

Serve Amritsari Paneer Tikka as an appetizer or evening snack with mint chutney and lemon wedges. It also works beautifully as a party starter.

Final Thoughts

Amritsari Paneer Tikka is a delicious combination of soft paneer, aromatic spices, and lightly charred edges. It's an easy vegetarian starter that brings the flavors of Punjab to your table.