Paneer Tikka
Paneer Tikka is a beloved dish that has won the hearts of millions. The smoky, spicy flavor of paneer marinated in a rich mixture of yogurt and aromatic spices is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. But, if you’re craving something unique that takes the traditional dish to a whole new level, the Makhmali Paneer Tikka is just the recipe for you. This version is softer, creamier, and packed with flavors that will have you coming back for more. What’s even better is that it takes just 20 minutes to prepare!
What Makes Makhmali Paneer Tikka Special?
The word “Makhmali” in Hindi means soft, velvety, and smooth just like the texture of the paneer in this recipe. Unlike regular paneer tikka, which tends to have a firm, charred texture, the Makhmali Paneer Tikka features a soft, melt-in-your-mouth experience. The key lies in the marinade: a perfect blend of yogurt, cream, and ground nuts, which makes the paneer so soft that it almost dissolves in your mouth.
Ingredients for Makhmali Paneer Tikka
- 250 grams of paneer (cottage cheese)
- 1/4 cup thick yogurt (strained)
- 2 tbsp fresh cream
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tbsp roasted cashew powder (or ground almonds)
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds (optional, for extra texture)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves
- 1 tbsp ghee or oil for grilling
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Preparation of Paneer:
- Start by cutting the paneer into 1-inch cubes. If you like your paneer extra soft, you can briefly soak the cubes in warm water to make them tender.
- Making the Marinade:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, fresh cream, ginger-garlic paste, roasted cashew powder (or ground almonds), poppy seeds, lemon juice, and all the spices (red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and cardamom powder).
- Add salt to taste and mix everything thoroughly. The marinade should have a thick, creamy consistency.
- Marinating the Paneer:
- Gently fold the paneer cubes into the marinade mixture, ensuring that every piece is evenly coated. Be gentle to avoid breaking the paneer.
- Let the paneer marinate for about 10-15 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for an hour or two will enhance the flavors even further.
- Grilling the Paneer:
- Preheat a grill or a non-stick pan on medium heat and add a little ghee or oil.
- Carefully place the marinated paneer cubes on the grill or in the pan.
- Grill the cubes for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. You can also drizzle a little ghee over the paneer while grilling for extra flavor.
- Garnishing and Serving:
- Once your Makhmali Paneer Tikka is perfectly grilled, garnish it with fresh coriander leaves and serve it hot with a side of mint chutney or tangy tamarind sauce.
- For a touch of extra flavor, sprinkle some chat masala or black salt on top just before serving.
Why You’ll Love Makhmali Paneer Tikka
- Soft and Creamy Texture: The rich yogurt and cream-based marinade makes the paneer super soft and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for last-minute cravings or impromptu gatherings.
- Restaurant-Quality Flavor: The combination of roasted nuts and spices brings a gourmet touch to this dish, making it as delicious as anything you’d find at a high-end restaurant.
- Healthy Yet Delicious: Paneer is a great source of protein, and the marinade adds healthy fats from the cream and nuts, making it a wholesome snack.
Makhmali Paneer Tikka is the perfect balance of creamy, smoky, and spicy flavors. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer at a party or enjoying it as a comforting snack at home, this dish is bound to impress. It’s simple, quick, and loaded with taste, making it a must try for all paneer lovers. So, fire up the grill and get ready to indulge in this melt-in-your-mouth treat!
