Paneer Tikka - Grilled Cottage Cheese Skewers

Ingredients:

• - 250 grams of paneer (cottage cheese), cut into cubes
• - 1/2 cup thick yogurt
• - 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• - 1 tablespoon tikka masala or a mix of ground cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric
• - 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• - 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• - Salt to taste
• - Cooking oil (such as vegetable or olive oil)
• - Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Paneer:

   - In a mixing bowl, combine the thick yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, tikka masala (or spice mix), garam masala, red chili powder, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.

   - Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and coat them evenly. Allow the paneer to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

2. Preheat the Grill:

   - Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. You can also use an oven broiler or a stovetop grill pan.

3. Skewer the Paneer:

   - Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto skewers. You can alternate them with slices of bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes for added flavor and color.

4. Grill the Paneer:

   - Brush the skewers with a little oil to prevent sticking.

   - Place the skewers on the grill or in the oven.

   - Grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until the paneer gets grill marks and turns slightly golden brown. You can baste with a little oil or marinade for extra flavor.

5. Serve Hot:

   - Remove the Paneer Tikka skewers from the grill and serve hot.

   - Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and lemon wedges.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits:

Paneer (Cottage Cheese): Paneer is a good source of high-quality protein and calcium. It provides essential amino acids and supports bone health.

Yogurt: Yogurt is rich in probiotics (beneficial gut bacteria), protein, and calcium. It aids digestion and supports gut health.

Spices: The spices used in the marinade, such as ginger, garlic, and turmeric, offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Vegetables (optional): Adding bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes to the skewers contributes vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

Low in Calories: Paneer Tikka is relatively low in calories compared to fried snacks, making it a healthier appetizer or snack option.

Protein-Rich: It's a protein-rich dish, making it suitable for vegetarians and those looking to increase protein intake.

Paneer Tikka is a delightful and healthy Indian appetizer that's loved by many as it combines the goodness of paneer, yogurt, and spices.