Paneer Shashlik
Paneer Shashlik is a delightful vegetarian twist on the traditional shashlik, which usually features skewered and grilled meat. This version stars paneer, a fresh, non-melting cheese beloved in South Asian cuisine, as the main ingredient. Paneer Shashlik combines the soft, creamy texture of paneer with the smoky char of grilled vegetables, all brought together with a blend of flavorful marinades. It’s a colorful dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate, featuring chunks of paneer, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, all marinated in a spicy, tangy mixture, then skewered and grilled to perfection.
This dish is perfect for barbecues and outdoor parties, offering a fantastic option for vegetarians and cheese lovers alike. Paneer Shashlik is not only about the unique combination of flavors but also about the joy of eating food off a stick, making it more enjoyable. The marinade, rich with spices and herbs, infuses the paneer and vegetables with deep flavors, while the grilling process adds a wonderful charred aroma and taste that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for a standout appetizer or a light main course, Paneer Shashlik is a versatile dish that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 250g paneer, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 large bell pepper (choose any color or a mix), cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 large onion, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 large tomato (deseeded), cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons yogurt, thick and whisked
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala
- 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil, plus more for brushing
- Wooden or metal skewers
Step-wise Process
- In a large bowl, mix together the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, chaat masala, kasuri methi, lemon juice, salt, and oil to create the marinade.
- Add the paneer cubes, bell pepper, onion, and tomato pieces to the bowl. Gently toss to ensure all the pieces are well coated with the marinade. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for better flavor, leave it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling.
- Preheat your grill, griddle pan, or oven (if using an oven, set it to broil at 200°C or 390°F).
- Thread the marinated paneer, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating between each.
- Place the skewers on the grill or griddle pan and cook, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown with some charred spots, about 10-15 minutes. If using an oven, place the skewers on a baking sheet and broil, turning once, until done.
- Brush with oil occasionally during the cooking process to keep them moist.
Number of Servings
- This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 40 minutes (including marination time)
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 55 minutes
Important Points
- Ensure the paneer is fresh for the best taste and texture.
- Deseed the tomatoes to prevent the skewers from becoming too soggy.
- Adjust the spiciness according to your preference by increasing or reducing the amount of chili powder.
- Do not overcook the paneer as it can become tough; it should be just lightly charred on the outside and soft on the inside.
How to Serve Paneer Shashlik
Serve Paneer Shashlik hot off the grill with mint chutney and lemon wedges on the side. It can also be accompanied by a salad or wrapped in a flatbread for a delicious meal.
Final Thoughts
Paneer Shashlik is a testament to the versatility of paneer and the flavors of Indian cuisine. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a festive gathering. The key to a great Paneer Shashlik lies in the marinade and the freshness of the ingredients. With its colorful presentation and a harmonious blend of flavors, Paneer Shashlik is sure to be a hit among both
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