How to Make Achari Paneer Tikka – Quick & Delicious Recipe

 Paneer tikka holds a special place in every Indian food lover’s heart but when it’s paired with the bold flavors of achar (pickle spices), it transforms into something extraordinary. Achari Paneer Tikka is a delightful appetizer or side dish that’s as packed with flavor as it is simple to make. Follow our step-by-step guide to recreate this restaurant-style delicacy at home and impress your guests (or treat yourself).

Whether you're preparing a party menu or just craving an indulgent vegetarian tikka experience, this recipe is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.

What is Achari Paneer Tikka?

Achari Paneer Tikka is a popular North Indian vegetarian dish made with chunks of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) marinated in a tangy, spicy, and aromatic blend of pickling spices. These marinated pieces are skewered with vegetables and traditionally cooked in a tandoor (clay oven) but can also be prepared on a stove, in an oven, or an air fryer.

The "achari" flavors are inspired by Indian pickles, which are known for their punchy and spice-forward profile. This dish beautifully captures that essence without overwhelming heat, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for Achari Paneer Tikka

To make this lip-smacking treat, you’ll need some kitchen staples and a few specialty spices. Here’s your checklist:

For the marinade:

• 250g paneer (cut into 1-1.5 inch cubes)
• 3 tablespoons thick yogurt
• 1 tablespoon mustard oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon achari masala (store-bought or homemade, see below)
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Juice of half a lemon

For the achari masala (if making at home):

• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• ½ teaspoon nigella seeds
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds

Toast these seeds in a hot pan and grind into a coarse powder.

For the skewers:

• 1 green bell pepper, diced in chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, diced in chunks
• 1 medium onion, cut into layers
• Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Achari Paneer Tikka

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Begin by cutting the paneer, bell peppers, and onions into uniform chunks. This ensures even cooking.
• If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’re soaked in water to prevent burning.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk yogurt until smooth and creamy.
• Add mustard oil, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and all the dry spices, including achari masala. Adjust salt as per taste.
• Mix thoroughly to create a thick, vibrant marinade.

Step 3: Marinate the Paneer and Veggies

• Gently toss the paneer, bell peppers, and onions into the marinade, ensuring even coating. Be careful not to break the paneer cubes.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 3 hours for deeper flavor).

Step 4: Skewer and Arrange

• Alternate the marinated paneer cubes and vegetables on skewers to create a colorful and appealing lineup.

Step 5A: Cook on a Stove

• Heat a non-stick grill pan or tawa and brush lightly with oil.
• Place the skewers on medium heat, rotating occasionally to achieve a char-grilled effect. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side.

Step 5B: Cook in an Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Line a baking tray with aluminum foil and place the skewers on top.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway for even grilling. Broil for an additional 2 minutes for that tandoori-style char.

Step 5C: Cook in an Air Fryer

• Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
• Arrange the skewers in a single layer and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Slide the paneer and veggie chunks off the skewers onto a serving plate.
• Garnish with freshly chopped coriander, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of chaat masala.
• Serve hot with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or a side of onion rings. Enjoy your restaurant-style Achari Paneer Tikka at home!

Tips for Making the Perfect Achari Paneer Tikka

• For Extra Creaminess: Add a tablespoon of cream or hung curd to the marinade for a richer flavor.
• Paneer Freshness: Opt for fresh and firm paneer; if it’s store-bought, soak in warm water for 10 minutes to soften.
• Customizable Veggies: Experiment with other veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for variety.
• Smoking the Tikka: Want authentic smoky flavors? Use the "dhungar" (smoking) method by placing a hot charcoal piece in a small bowl, setting it inside the marinate, adding a drop of oil on the charcoal, and covering the bowl for a few minutes.

Why You'll Love Achari Paneer Tikka

• Bold, tangy flavors meet melt-in-your-mouth paneer.
• Quick to prepare, making it ideal for parties, weekend treats, or special occasions.
• Perfectly vegetarian and high in protein.
• Customizable according to spice level preferences.
• A great way to add excitement to your weekday dinners!

Explore More with Paneer Recipes

If you enjoyed creating Achari Paneer Tikka, why not take your cooking skills up a notch? Try related recipes like Paneer Malia Tikka, Amritsari Paneer, or Paneer Butter Masala.

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