Achari Paneer Tikka, a dish loved worldwide for its yummy flavors and aromatic spices, holds a special place in the hearts of food lovers, home chefs, and restaurant owners alike. This delicious appetizer, also known as Pickled Cottage Cheese Skewers, has its roots deeply embedded in the vibrant culinary history of India.
Coming from the northern regions of the Indian subcontinent, Achari Paneer Tikka gets its name from the word “achar,” which means pickle. The dish is a mix of juicy paneer (cottage cheese) chunks marinated in a tantalizing blend of pickling spices, resulting in a burst of flavors that leave taste buds craving for more.
Nutritional Facts
For the health-conscious food enthusiasts, Achari Paneer Tikka offers a guilt-free indulgence. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile for a serving size of 4:
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Ingredients You'll Need for Achari Paneer Tikka
Prepare to start cooking by gathering the following ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 250g paneer (cubed)
- 1 cup thick yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon achari masala (pickle spice mix)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
For the Skewers:
- Bell peppers (sliced into chunks)
- Onions (sliced into rings)
For the Achari Masala:
- 1 tbsp fennel seeds
- 1 tbsp mustard seeds
- 1 tbsp fenugreek seeds
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
For Garnish:
- Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
- Lemon wedges
Kitchen Utensils
Ensure you have the following utensils ready for a smooth cooking experience:
- Mixing bowls
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Grill or oven
- Basting brush
- Tongs
Tips for Cooking Achari Paneer Tikka
Traditional Method:
- Allow the paneer to marinate for at least 2 hours to absorb the flavors thoroughly.
- Use mustard oil for an authentic touch, enhancing the dish’s taste.
- Grill over an open flame for a smoky essence
Modern Method:
- In case of time constraints, the dish can be baked in a preheated oven at 180°C for 15-20 minutes.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
How to Make Achari Paneer Tikka
Step 1: Prepare the Achari Masala
- Dry roast fennel seeds, mustard seeds, fenugreek seeds, cumin seeds, and coriander seeds until aromatic.
- Grind the roasted spices into a fine powder using a grinder or mortar and pestle.
Step 2: Marination (Approx. 2 hours)
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, mustard oil, ginger-garlic paste, achari masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
- Make sure all the ingredients are mixed well to form a smooth marinade.
- Add paneer cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
- Cover the bowl and put it in the fridge for at least 2 hours to let the flavors mix.
Step 3: Skewering
- Preheat the grill or oven.
- Put marinated paneer cubes onto skewers, alternating with bell peppers and onion rings.
Step 4: Grilling (Approx. 15-20 minutes)
- Brush the skewers with a little oil.
- Put them on the preheated grill or in the oven.
- Grill for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally until the paneer is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Take the skewers off the grill.
- Add freshly chopped coriander leaves for garnish.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges.
Try it With
Pair your Achari Paneer Tikka with mint chutney or a zesty tamarind sauce for an extra burst of flavors. Enjoy it with naan or serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Variation
Experiment with the marinade by adding crushed kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for a unique twist. Also, try adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms to the skewers for a diverse flavor profile.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve just mastered the art of preparing Achari Paneer Tikka, a dish that not only satisfies the taste buds but also reflects the rich culinary heritage of India. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a restaurant owner looking to add a crowd-pleaser to your menu, this recipe is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who savor its aromatic delights. Embrace the joy of cooking and take pride in serving a dish as exceptional as Achari Paneer Tikka.
