Ingredients
For Paneer Tikka
- 250 g paneer, cut into cubes
- ½ cup thick yogurt (hung curd)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp red chilli powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 onion, cubed
- 1 capsicum, cubed
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
- 6 taco shells or soft tortillas
- ½ cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- ¼ cup sliced onions
- Mint chutney or chipotle mayo
- Grated cheese (optional)
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
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Prepare the Marinade:
In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, spices, lemon juice, oil, and salt until smooth.
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Marinate Paneer & Vegetables:
Add paneer cubes, onion, and capsicum to the marinade. Toss gently and rest for at least 30 minutes.
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Prepare Cooking Surface:
Preheat a grill pan, tawa, or oven. Brush lightly with oil.
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Grill Paneer Tikka:
Cook marinated paneer and vegetables on medium heat, turning occasionally until charred and cooked evenly.
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Warm Taco Shells:
Lightly warm taco shells or tortillas on a pan or in the oven to make them pliable.
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Prepare Fillings:
Keep lettuce, onions, sauces, and garnishes ready for assembling.
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Assemble the Tacos:
Fill each taco with paneer tikka, veggies, sauce, and cheese if using.
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Serve Immediately:
Garnish with coriander and lemon juice. Serve hot for best taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Indian–Mexican fusion
- Quick and fun to assemble
- Great party or snack option
- Customisable toppings
- Vegetarian crowd favourite
Expert Tips
- Use hung curd for thick marinade
- Do not overcook paneer
- Rest marinated paneer for flavour
- Char adds smoky taste
- Assemble just before serving
Common Mistakes
- Using watery yogurt
- Overcrowding the pan
- Skipping marination time
- Overfilling tacos
Variations
Vegan: Replace paneer with tofu.
Spicy: Add jalapeños or extra chilli powder.
Healthy: Use whole wheat tortillas.
Personal Note
Paneer tikka tacos are my go-to when I want to surprise guests with something familiar yet different. The joy of watching people enjoy this fusion never gets old. It’s playful cooking at its best.
FAQ
- Can paneer tikka be made ahead?
- Yes, grill paneer in advance and assemble later.
- Which sauce works best?
- Mint chutney or chipotle mayo both work well.
- Can this be made without oven?
- Yes, a tawa or grill pan works perfectly.
- Are soft or hard shells better?
- Both work; soft tortillas are easier to handle.
About Chef
Shreya Singh, a Pune-based culinary enthusiast and homemaker, specializes in authentic Indian home-style cooking. With years of experience in managing a family kitchen, she has mastered the art of balancing taste, nutrition, and traditional flavours... Read more