Indian Spiced Tandoori Paneer

Ingredients

This adaptation replaces the salmon with paneer, a popular Indian cheese. The marinade is modified to include traditional Indian spices and flavors, such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. The grilling technique remains the same, but the cedar plank is replaced with skewers for easy cooking. We alse have the original recipe for Cedar-Plank Salmon, so you can check it out.

• 400g (14 oz) paneer, cut into cubes 400g (14 oz) paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 cup (240g) plain yogurt 1 cup (240g) plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving Lemon wedges, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 22g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 6g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, paprika, chili powder, grated ginger, minced garlic, 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, or refrigerate overnight for enhanced flavors.
3. 3.
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. 4.
   Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece.
5. 5.
   Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer is lightly charred and cooked through.
6. 6.
   Remove the skewers from the grill and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
7. 7.
   Serve the Tandoori Paneer Tikka hot, accompanied by lemon wedges for squeezing over the paneer.

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.
• Garam masala — Use store-bought garam masala or make your own by combining ground cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, cumin, and coriander.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smokier flavor, you can cook the Tandoori Paneer Tikka in a charcoal grill.
• If you prefer a spicier taste, increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• Serve the Tandoori Paneer Tikka with mint chutney or a side of naan bread for a complete Indian meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Tandoori Paneer Tikka as an appetizer or as a main course accompanied by fragrant basmati rice and a refreshing cucumber salad.

Presentation advice

Arrange the grilled paneer skewers on a platter, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve with lemon wedges on the side. The vibrant colors of the paneer and the aromatic spices will make for an enticing presentation.