Are you craving a flavorful and healthy Indian dish but short on time? Look no further! This oven-baked Paneer Tikka recipe offers all the deliciousness of traditional Paneer Tikka with significantly less fuss. It’s a perfect quick dinner idea, a fantastic addition to your homemade cooking repertoire, and a surefire way to impress your family and friends with a truly delicious dish. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks alike, offering a healthy meal option without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb paneer (Indian cheese), cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp cumin powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or canola)
- 1 tbsp chopped cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Marinate the Paneer:
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In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, paprika, and salt. Mix well.
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Add the paneer cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-3 hours for maximum flavor. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful your Paneer Tikka will be.
Bake the Paneer:
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Remove the marinated paneer from the refrigerator and gently toss it with 2 tablespoons of oil. This will help the paneer to brown nicely in the oven.
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Arrange the paneer cubes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the paneer halfway through, until it is golden brown and slightly charred on the edges. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, garnish the Paneer Tikka with fresh cilantro. Serve hot as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a larger meal. It pairs wonderfully with naan bread, rice, or a simple salad.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra smoky flavor: Broil the paneer for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped green chilies to the marinade for extra heat.
- Add some sweetness: A teaspoon of sugar or honey in the marinade adds a subtle sweetness that balances the spices.
- Make it vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can ensure it’s vegan by using a vegan yogurt alternative.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on paneer and oil used)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This oven-baked Paneer Tikka is a fantastic example of how easy it is to create healthy and delicious meals at home. It's a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with your own variations to find your perfect Paneer Tikka recipe.