Tandoori Gobi Tikka Recipe

Introduction

Tandoori Gobi Tikka is a delightful North Indian appetizer that brings the rich, smoky flavors of the tandoor right to your kitchen, all while being completely vegetarian. This dish is a beautiful medley of marinated cauliflower pieces grilled to perfection, making it a perfect starter for any occasion. Accompanied by refreshing coriander-mint chutney and a tangy onion-cucumber salad, Tandoori Gobi Tikka is a culinary journey worth taking. The combination of spices and the smokiness from the charcoal will transport your taste buds to an authentic Indian eatery.

Ingredients

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Preparation Time

Instructions

To begin preparing the Tandoori Gobi Tikka, ensure that all your ingredients are gathered and ready for use. The first step involves steaming the cauliflower pieces. Take a steamer and place the chopped cauliflower in it, steaming for approximately 4 minutes. Be cautious not to over-steam; the goal is to retain a slight crunch in the cauliflower. Once steamed, transfer the pieces to a mixing bowl and turn off the stove.

Next, to create the flavorful marinade, add the hung curd, red chili powder, garam masala, chaat masala, turmeric powder, coriander powder, celery, kasoori methi, gram flour, and salt to the bowl containing the cauliflower. Mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure every piece is well-coated in the spices. Cover the bowl and allow it to marinate for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to penetrate the cauliflower, enhancing its taste.

After marination, heat some oil in a frying pan or kadhai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the marinated cauliflower pieces. Sauté them for a few minutes until they are cooked through, ensuring they do not lose their crunch.

While the cauliflower is cooking, prepare the charcoal for the smoky flavor that defines Tandoori dishes. Place a piece of coal directly on the gas flame and let it burn until it becomes red hot. Once hot, transfer it into a steel bowl. Place this bowl in the center of the cooked cauliflower in the kadhai and pour a teaspoon of ghee over the coal. Quickly cover the kadhai with a lid to trap the smoke inside. Let it sit for about one minute. This process imbues the cauliflower with that iconic tandoori smokiness.

After a minute, remove the lid and carefully take out the bowl with the coal. Your Tandoori Gobi Tikka is now ready to be served hot! Garnish it with fresh cilantro and serve alongside a vibrant coriander-mint chutney and a refreshing onion-cucumber salad to elevate the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This Tandoori Gobi Tikka is an exceptional starter that is sure to impress your guests. Serve it warm as an appetizer, and watch as it disappears from the plate in no time. The combination of smoky flavors, spiced yogurt, and the refreshing sides makes for a delightful culinary experience that celebrates the essence of North Indian cuisine.

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a festive occasion, or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, Tandoori Gobi Tikka fits the bill perfectly. With its enticing flavors and beautiful presentation, this dish embodies the heart of Indian cooking. Enjoy the journey of flavors, and happy cooking!