Discover The Secret To Perfect Paneer Malai Tikka At Home

Paneer Malai Tikka is a creamy, mildly spiced paneer dish marinated in fresh cream, hung curd, and aromatic spices. It is grilled on a tawa, oven, or barbecue for a rich, smoky flavor. Serve with mint chutney and enjoy this restaurant-style dish at home.

For the Marinade:

• 200g Paneer (cut into cubes)
• ½ cup Fresh Cream (Malai)
• ¼ cup Hung Curd (thick yogurt)
• 1 tbsp Cashew Paste (soaked cashews blended into a smooth paste)
• 1 tbsp Cheese (grated, optional for extra richness)
• 1 tbsp Ginger-Garlic Paste
• 1 tsp Green Chili Paste (adjust as per spice preference)
• ½ tsp Garam Masala
• ½ tsp Cardamom Powder
• ½ tsp Black Pepper Powder
• ½ tsp Roasted Cumin Powder
• 1 tsp Lemon Juice
• 1 tbsp Cornflour (helps coat the paneer)
• 1 tbsp Ghee or Butter (for brushing)
• Salt to taste

For Garnishing:

• Chaat Masala (for sprinkling)
• Fresh Coriander Leaves (chopped)
• Lemon Wedges
• Onion Rings

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Paneer Malai Tikka

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

• In a mixing bowl, take hung curd and fresh cream. Whisk until smooth.
• Add cashew paste, grated cheese, ginger-garlic paste, and green chili paste. Mix well.
• Now, add all the dry spices – garam masala, cardamom powder, black pepper, roasted cumin powder, and salt.
• Squeeze in lemon juice and mix everything to form a thick, smooth marinade.
• Add cornflour to help bind the marinade to the paneer.

Step 2: Marinate the Paneer

• Add the paneer cubes into the prepared marinade.
• Gently coat each cube, ensuring they are well covered with the mixture.
• Cover the bowl and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours for better flavor absorption.

Step 3: Skewer the Paneer

• Take wooden skewers (soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning if using on a grill).
• Thread the marinated paneer pieces onto the skewers.
• Optionally, add diced bell peppers and onions between the paneer pieces for extra flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Paneer Malai Tikka

Option 1: Cooking on a Tawa (Pan-Fried Method)

• Heat a non-stick tawa or pan and grease it with a little ghee or butter.
• Place the skewered paneer and cook on low-medium flame.
• Flip the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking and golden brown char marks.
• Brush with ghee or butter while cooking for a rich flavor.

Option 2: Cooking in an Oven (Baked Method)

• Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil and place the skewered paneer on it.
• Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• For a smoky tandoor effect, switch to the broil setting for the last 2–3 minutes.

Option 3: Cooking in an Air Fryer

• Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (356°F).
• Place the skewers in the air fryer basket and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping once in between.

Option 4: Cooking on a Barbecue Grill

• Preheat a charcoal or gas grill.
• Place the skewers over the grill and cook for about 5–7 minutes, rotating occasionally.
• Brush with butter or ghee to enhance the smoky flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Once cooked, remove the paneer malai tikka from the skewers.
• Sprinkle some chaat masala for extra flavor.
• Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
• Serve hot with mint chutney, onion rings, and lemon wedges.