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Flavorful Paneer Tikka Skewers Recipe Easy Homemade with Mint Yogurt Chutney

paneer tikka skewers - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for smoky, tangy paneer tikka skewers served with a fresh mint yogurt chutney, perfect for entertaining or a satisfying snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 400 grams (about 14 oz) paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) thick plain yogurt (whole milk or Greek yogurt)
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp chaat masala (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste (or finely minced fresh ginger and garlic)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or mustard oil (for marinade)
  • For the Mint Yogurt Chutney:
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) plain yogurt
  • 1 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 small green chili (seeded for less heat)
  • 1 tsp roasted cumin powder
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Optional Skewers Add-ons: sliced bell peppers, red onion wedges, cherry tomatoes

Instructions

  1. Cut 400 grams of paneer into 1-inch cubes, keeping them uniform for even cooking. Set aside.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup thick plain yogurt with 1 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp chaat masala (optional), and salt to taste. Add 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 2 tbsp vegetable oil. Whisk until smooth and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
  3. Gently fold the paneer cubes into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally up to 2 hours.
  4. While the paneer marinates, blend together 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 1 cup fresh mint leaves, 1/2 cup cilantro, 1 small green chili (seeded if preferred), 1 tsp roasted cumin powder, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and salt to taste until smooth. Chill until ready to serve.
  5. Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto skewers, alternating with optional veggies like bell peppers, red onion wedges, or cherry tomatoes. Leave a little space between pieces for even cooking.
  6. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes until hot and slightly smoking. Brush lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
  7. Place the skewers on the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs until golden brown edges with slight charring appear. The paneer should be cooked through but still soft inside.
  8. Remove the skewers from heat and let rest for a minute. Serve immediately with chilled mint yogurt chutney on the side.

Notes

Marinate paneer for at least 30 minutes for best flavor; up to 2 hours is ideal. Use fresh paneer for best texture. Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning. Medium-high heat is key to get a nice char without drying out the paneer. Prepare chutney ahead to save time. For smoky flavor, try adding hot charcoal aroma after cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: paneer tikka, skewers, mint yogurt chutney, Indian appetizer, vegetarian, grilled paneer, easy recipe