Recipe - Achari Paneer Tikka

Delight your taste buds with the irresistible allure of Achari Paneer Tikka, a culinary masterpiece that harmoniously combines the creamy indulgence of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the bold and zesty flavors of traditional Indian pickles, or "achar." This delectable appetizer captures the essence of Indian cuisine, offering a symphony of spices and textures that's sure to tantalize your palate.

Achari Paneer Tikka takes the art of grilling to new heights, infusing each paneer cube with a medley of aromatic spices that pay homage to the rich heritage of Indian cooking. From the subtle warmth of cumin and fennel seeds to the robust notes of mustard oil and achari masala, every bite offers a delightful journey through layers of flavor.

Whether you're hosting a gathering, seeking a scrumptious starter, or simply craving a taste of authentic Indian cuisine, Achari Paneer Tikka is a culinary gem that stands as a testament to the fusion of tradition and innovation. Join us as we dive into the heart of this recipe, exploring the vibrant ingredients, meticulous marination process, and the sizzling grill that transforms simple paneer into a gourmet delight.

Elevate your culinary repertoire and embark on a gastronomic adventure with Achari Paneer Tikka—a dish that celebrates the vibrant palette of Indian spices while satisfying your cravings for a truly unforgettable experience.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Marination Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

250 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
1 tablespoon mustard oil (or any cooking oil of choice)
1 tablespoon hung curd (thick yogurt)
1 tablespoon besan (gram flour)
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 tablespoon finely chopped green chilies (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon achari masala (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds (saunf)
1/2 teaspoon nigella seeds (kalonji)
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Lemon wedges for serving

Method

- In a mixing bowl, combine mustard oil, hung curd, ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, achari masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, nigella seeds, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.

- Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and gently coat them with the mixture. Ensure that each paneer cube is well covered with the flavorful marinade.

- Cover the bowl with a cling film or lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the paneer absorb the rich flavors.

- While the paneer is marinating, soak bamboo skewers in water for about 15 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling.

- After marination, thread the paneer cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving some space between each cube.

- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush it lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

- Place the skewers on the grill and cook the paneer for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the paneer turns golden brown and slightly charred.

- Once the Achari Paneer Tikka is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and transfer the paneer cubes to a serving plate.

- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve the hot and flavorful Achari Paneer Tikka with lemon wedges for a tangy kick.