Achari Paneer Tikka with a Twist

Ingredients

• 250g (9 oz) paneer, cut into cubes 250g (9 oz) paneer, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup (120g) Greek yogurt 1/2 cup (120g) Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil 2 tablespoons mustard oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon achari masala (pickling spice blend) 1 tablespoon achari masala (pickling spice blend)
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 10g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, mustard oil, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, achari masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
2. 2.
   Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and gently toss until each piece is well coated. Allow the paneer to marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill or oven to medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.
5. 5.
   Grill or bake the paneer skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and slightly charred on the edges.
6. 6.
   Remove the paneer tikka from the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
7. 7.
   Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Paneer — Ensure that the paneer is firm and fresh for the best texture. If you can't find paneer, you can substitute it with firm tofu.

Tips & Tricks

• Soak the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning during grilling.
• For an extra smoky flavor, you can grill the paneer tikka on a charcoal grill.
• Adjust the spice level according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder.

Serving advice

Serve the Achari Paneer Tikka as an appetizer or as part of a main course. It pairs well with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or a side of naan bread.

Presentation advice

Arrange the paneer tikka skewers on a platter and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an added burst of tanginess.