Frequently Asked Questions

 
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! Paneer pieces can be marinated and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store the marinated paneer in an airtight container to prevent the fridge odor from penetrating and ruining the tikkas’ flavor.
Also, please do not leave it exposed to the air, as the topmost layer may get oxidized and discolored.
You may have to take extra care while marinating the paneer as it is a dairy-based product. Dairy-based products release moisture upon marination, which ruins their flavor.
Veggies can be marinated for 3-4 hours before grilling, as marinating for a longer time will turn the veggies mushy and spoil their texture.
 
How can I best use the leftover Marinade?
The leftover marinade is an excellent addition to potatoes, mushrooms, and other veggies. Potatoes can be parboiled, marinated, and then grilled to form an amazingly delicious tikka recipe. 
 
How can I store these Pahadi Paneer Tikkas?
These delicious Pahadi Paneer Tikkas can be cooked and stored in a refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Sprinkle some water and reheat in a pan or microwave when required. Serve hot with a dip or chutney of your choice.
As this recipe freezes perfectly, you can make a large batch of these scrumptious tikkas and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw them overnight in the fridge.
Next day, sprinkle them with some water and reheat them in a pan or a microwave. Serve hot with chutney or a dip.
 
Other ways to grill Pahadi Paneer Tikka
 

Oven Method

Follow the same steps till the marinade. Then, preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. 
Now, line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper. Put the skewers on the tray and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the paneer is roasted.
Turn on the oven’s broil ON and cook the hariyali paneer tikka for two to three minutes to get the charred marks. To avoid burning, keep an eye on the paneer as it broils. 
 

Air Fryer Method

Line the paneer in a single layer. Leave some space in between the skewers for even cooking. Set the temperature to 350°F and bake for 8-12 minutes or until crisp.
TIP – Refrain from over-crowding the air-fryer when baking the tikkas. Always bake them in batches.
Once baked, brush the tikkas with some oil for the succulent-looking tikkas. This will make the tikkas retain their moisture and not appear dry.
 

Stovetop Grill Pan Method

A grill pan (ideally iron) will work if you don’t have an oven.
Spray some oil on the pan. After that, place the tikka skewers. Cook until browned on all sides and burnt on the edges. Keep turning at regular intervals for even cooking.
 

Outdoor Grill Method

Spray the heated outside grill generously with oil. It will prevent the paneer from sticking to the grill. 
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes until the paneer is roasted and has charred marks on the edges. Make sure to turn the paneer skewers halfway through.