Paneer Tikka

Paneer tikka is the vegetarian jewel of the tandoor, the starter that shows up at every North Indian restaurant and wedding buffet. Cubes of paneer and colorful peppers are threaded onto skewers, coated in a spiced yogurt marinade, and grilled until the edges char and smoke. It is the dish that converts skeptics into paneer lovers at the very first bite.

Charred edges, creamy middle

The yogurt marinade, sharpened with lemon and ginger-garlic, clings to the paneer and turns into a golden, lightly charred crust over the heat. Inside, the paneer stays soft and milky, a lovely contrast to the crisp peppers and the smoky char. A dusting of chaat masala right off the grill adds a tangy, almost citrusy pop that makes it irresistible. It is equally delicious as the star of a dinner spread or as a starter before a big curry meal, and the charred peppers and onions are just as good as the paneer itself.

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