Grilled Paneer Methi Tikki: A Delightful Indian Appetizer
Grilled Paneer Methi Tikki is a savory, high-protein vegetarian appetizer that perfectly blends the creamy texture of homemade paneer with the aromatic flavors of fenugreek (methi) leaves, mint, and Indian spices. This grilled snack is a fantastic choice for any gathering, be it a casual meal or a celebratory feast. With its crispy golden exterior and soft, spiced interior, this dish offers a burst of flavor with every bite. If you’re looking to impress your guests with something both healthy and delicious, this recipe will surely stand out.
Ingredients for Grilled Paneer Methi Tikki
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 500 grams, cut into cubes |
| Sunflower Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Methi Leaves (Fenugreek Leaves) | 1/2 cup |
| Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 1/2 cup |
| Green Chillies | 2, chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, chopped |
| Ginger | 1/2 inch, grated |
| Onion | 1 medium-sized, finely chopped |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Chaat Masala (optional) | For sprinkling before serving |
Preparation Time
- Total Prep Time: 3 hours (for marination) + 20 minutes (for grilling)
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Appetizer
Diet: High-Protein Vegetarian
Instructions for Making Grilled Paneer Methi Tikki
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by preparing all the ingredients listed above. Make sure your paneer is fresh and cut into large cubes to allow for better marination and grilling. -
-
Make the Ground Paste:
In a mixer, combine the fresh methi leaves, mint leaves, green chillies, garlic, ginger, and onion. Grind these ingredients into a smooth paste. It is important to grind the ingredients without adding any water to ensure the paste retains a thick consistency that will coat the paneer well. Once done, transfer the ground mixture to a large mixing bowl. -
Season the Mixture:
Add lemon juice, salt, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and sunflower oil to the bowl with the ground paste. Mix everything well so that the spices and seasoning are evenly distributed. -
Marinate the Paneer:
Gently add the cubed paneer to the prepared spice mixture. Toss the paneer cubes carefully to ensure they are well-coated with the paste. Cover the bowl with a cling film or a lid and let it marinate for a minimum of 3 hours. The longer you marinate, the more the paneer will absorb the flavors, so donβt hesitate to let it sit for longer if you have the time. -
Grill the Tikkis:
After the marination period, heat a grill pan over medium heat. If you don’t have a grill pan, a regular non-stick pan will also work. Add a teaspoon of oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, place the marinated paneer cubes into the pan, ensuring that they are not overcrowded. Grill the paneer cubes over a low to medium flame, turning them occasionally, until they are evenly crisp and golden brown on all sides. This should take about 15 to 20 minutes. You can press the paneer gently with a spatula to help them crisp up. -
Finish with Kasuri Methi:
Once the paneer is grilled to perfection, remove the cubes from the pan and place them onto a serving plate. Sprinkle hand-crushed Kasuri methi over the top for an additional burst of flavor. If you enjoy tangy flavors, sprinkle some chaat masala just before serving. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Grilled Paneer Methi Tikki is best served hot, paired with a refreshing green chutney for dipping. This appetizer goes wonderfully with a variety of party meals, such as Amritsari Gobi Matar, Gajar Pulao, and Gur Paare.
Nutritional Information
While the exact nutritional breakdown will depend on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes, here is an estimated nutritional profile for 1 serving (out of 6):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 13 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 220 mg |
This recipe offers a rich source of plant-based protein from paneer, along with the health benefits of fenugreek (methi) leaves, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and high fiber content. The mint leaves provide a refreshing balance to the spices, making each bite a delightful combination of flavors.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Paneer Methi Tikki
- Paneer Texture: If you find that the paneer is too soft, you can press it gently between two paper towels before marinating to remove excess moisture.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the spice levels by increasing or decreasing the amount of green chillies and red chilli powder according to your taste preference.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan variation, you can substitute the paneer with tofu, which will absorb the flavors of the marinade in a similar way.
Conclusion
Grilled Paneer Methi Tikki is a mouthwatering Indian appetizer that combines the rich flavors of spices with the nutritional goodness of paneer and fresh herbs. This dish is a perfect choice for those looking for a high-protein vegetarian snack that can be enjoyed as part of a meal or at any festive gathering. Try this recipe at your next event, and watch it become the star of the party!
