Spicy Grilled Paneer Skewers with Mint-Cilantro Chutney
Spice up your barbecue with paneer on grill! These easy Indian appetizers are marinated & grilled to perfection. Get my secret mint-cilantro chutney recipe!

Alright, fancy a bit of spice and char? ever wondered if you could get that amazing paneer tikka taste straight from your own bbq? well, get ready because we're diving into paneer on grill – and it's easier than you think! honestly, i used to think grilling paneer was some kind of restaurant secret, but trust me, it's totally doable (and mega delicious) at home.
Grilling Up Goodness: Introduction to Paneer on Grill
Let's be real, sometimes you just crave those easy indian appetizers . you know, the ones with bold flavors. this recipe is inspired by the vibrant street food scene.
Originating from the indian subcontinent, paneer tikka is a classic, flavourful dish. this version, though, takes it outdoors onto the grill.
It's a super easy recipe vegetarian , perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend bbq. prep time? minimal.
Difficulty? beginner-friendly. this grilled paneer wonder yields about 4 servings as an appetizer or 2 as a main course.
This isn't just about taste, though. did you know paneer is a great source of protein? according to a study published in the journal of food science and technology , paneer is a rich source of calcium and protein and contains all essential amino acids.
This recipe is the perfect excuse to get your protein fix while enjoying some smoky, spicy goodness. imagine serving these skewers at your next summer bbq or garden party.
These indian vegetarian recipes will be the star of the show. what makes this recipe vegetarian truly special is the combination of smoky char, creamy paneer, and zingy mint-cilantro chutney.
Forget your average burger!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
It's not just some random indian appetizers . it’s the easiest way to impress your mates. plus, it brings a healthy, flavourful vegetarian indian option to the table.
The taste will remind you that restaurant-quality cooking is at your fingertips. the secret is getting a good char without drying out the paneer.
Marinating is key. so, are you ready to create delicious paneer on grill ? let’s gather the ingredients!
Alright, mate! Ready to make some wicked grilled paneer ? This ain't your average Easy Recipe Vegetarian ; we're going full-on flavour town!
Spicy Grilled Paneer Skewers with Mint-Cilantro Chutney Recipe Card

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup (240ml) Plain Yogurt, Greek or full-fat recommended
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) Lemon Juice, fresh
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) Ginger-Garlic Paste (equal parts grated ginger and garlic)
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) Garam Masala
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) Ground Coriander
- ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) Turmeric Powder
- ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) Chili Powder, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) Salt, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) Vegetable Oil or melted Ghee
- 1 cup (packed) Fresh Mint Leaves
- 1 cup (packed) Fresh Cilantro Leaves
- 1-2 Green Chilies, stemmed and seeded, to taste
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) Lemon Juice
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) Ginger, roughly chopped
- ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) Cumin Powder
- ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) Salt, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) Water, or as needed for consistency
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 Yellow Bell Pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 Red Onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
🥄 Instructions:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, garam masala, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and oil/ghee.
- Gently fold the paneer cubes into the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Combine all chutney ingredients in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth. Add water as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat (about 350-400°F or 175-200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto the soaked skewers, alternating with bell pepper pieces and red onion wedges if using.
- Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the paneer is lightly charred and heated through. Turn the skewers frequently to ensure even cooking.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately with the Mint-Cilantro Chutney.
Ingredients & Equipment
Let's get down to the nitty-gritty. It's all about getting that Paneer Tikka taste on grill . Honestly, once you nail this, you'll be making Indian Appetizers all the time.
Main Ingredients
Paneer: 1 lb (450g), cubed. Get the good stuff, yeah? Fresh paneer should be milky white and smell, well, like fresh milk. If it's yellowish or smells sour, bin it.
Yogurt: 1 cup (240ml), plain, full-fat. This tenderises the paneer.
Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons (30ml), freshly squeezed only! Bottled stuff is rubbish.
Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 tablespoons (30ml). Make your own or get a decent pre-made one from a shop.
Garam Masala: 1 tablespoon (15ml).
Cumin: 1 teaspoon (5ml), ground.
Coriander: 1 teaspoon (5ml), ground.
Turmeric: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml), ground.
Chili Powder: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml), adjust to taste.
Salt: ½ teaspoon (2.5ml), or to taste.
Vegetable Oil or Ghee: 2 tablespoons (30ml).
Seasoning Notes
We're aiming for that classic indian vegetarian recipes flavour. garam masala is your base. cumin and coriander add earthiness. turmeric brings the colour.
Chili powder? crank it up if you like! a splash of lemon brightens everything. if you can't find garam masala, try a mix of cumin, coriander, cardamom, and cloves.
Equipment Needed
- Grill: Gas or charcoal. You can even use a grill pan. Aim for a temp of 350- 400° F or 175- 200° C.
- Mixing Bowls: For marinating.
- Skewers: Metal or wooden (soak wooden ones for at least 30 minutes !).
- Food Processor/Blender: For the chutney.
Don't have skewers? No worries! Just grill the Recipe Vegetarian paneer directly on the grill grates. Just flip carefully.
This Easy Indian Appetizers recipe shows that you don't need fancy stuff to make great food!
Give this Tikka Recipe a go, yeah? You'll be hooked.

Right then, let's talk paneer on grill , shall we? forget boring bbqs, we're levelling up with these easy indian appetizers.
Seriously, if you're after an easy recipe vegetarian that's also a total crowd-pleaser, you've hit the jackpot. i swear, even my mate dave who thinks anything vaguely spicy is "exotic" couldn't get enough of this!
Get Your Prep On: Mise en Place Like a Pro
First things first. let's talk mise en place , yeah? it sounds posh, but it just means getting your ducks in a row.
Chop your 1 lb (450g) of paneer into 1-inch cubes. get all your spices ready. i'm talking 1 cup (240ml) of yogurt, 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste (equal parts, like a boss), 1 tablespoon (15ml) garam masala, 1 teaspoon (5ml) each of cumin and coriander, and some turmeric and chili powder to taste.
Don't forget the salt and oil!
Grilling Goodness: Step-by-Step
Okay, paneer on grill time! This Tikka Recipe is easier than it looks.
- Whisk all marinade ingredients. Seriously just chuck it all in, mate!
- Gently fold the paneer in so it's well coated.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours if you're organised).
- Make your chutney - mint, cilantro, green chilies (if you're brave), lemon juice, ginger, cumin, salt. Blend it all until smooth. You got it!
- Preheat your grill to medium heat ( 350- 400° F ).
- Thread paneer on skewers, alternating with pepper and onion if you fancy.
- Grill for 5- 7 minutes per side until nicely charred. Rotate often!
Serve that bad boy Grilled Paneer with the chutney. Boom.
Pro Tips for Paneer Perfection
Want to really nail this Indian Appetizers dish? Here's the goss:
- Don't over-marinate! Paneer goes soft like a toddler's blanket if you leave it too long.
- Get your grill HOT. That's how you get those sexy charred marks.
- Watch it like a hawk! Paneer cooks fast. You don't want burnt offerings.
Honestly? i reckon this is the best recipe vegetarian i've whipped up in ages. serve it with naan bread and some raita.
It's basically the perfect vegetarian indian feast. and now you know the secrets to amazing paneer tikka , so go on get cooking these easy indian appetizers and the best indian vegetarian recipes .
Alright, let's talk about those little extras that make this paneer on grill recipe a real winner. i want to help you make sure you don’t just cook it, but nail it.
This isn't just another recipe vegetarian ; it's a chance to show off!
Recipe Notes
Plating the Paneer: Look at these serving suggestions!
Honestly, presentation is half the battle, innit? for plating and presentation, think colourful. i'm talkin' vibrant greens and reds against that char-grilled grilled paneer .
A drizzle of the mint-cilantro chutney looks ace, or you could fan the paneer tikka skewers out on a bed of shredded lettuce.
Complementary sides? oh my gosh, so many options! a light, refreshing cucumber raita balances the spice perfectly. some fluffy naan bread or even a simple quinoa salad works wonders.
For drinks, think something cooling: lassi, iced tea, or even just good old sparkling water with a slice of lime.
Perfect for summer indian appetizers !
Storing Leftovers: Keep your paneer fresh!
Right, so you've made a ton of this indian vegetarian goodness. what to do with the leftovers? well, refrigeration is your best mate.
Pop the grilled paneer into an airtight container, and it'll keep happily in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing paneer tikka ? hmm, i wouldn't recommend it, to be honest. the texture can get a bit weird. however, if you really must, freeze the marinated (but uncooked) paneer.
Thaw it completely before grilling.
Reheating instructions are easy peasy. a quick zap in the microwave (though it might get a bit rubbery), a gentle sizzle in a pan, or even back on the grill for a minute or two will do the trick.
Be sure it's piping hot!
Variations on a Theme: Make it your own!
Wanna mix things up? sorted. for a dietary adaptation , try swapping out the dairy yogurt in the marinade with cashew cream for a vegan option.
This ensures our dish remain as one of the most interesting indian vegetarian recipes .
Seasonally, think about what's fresh. in autumn, add some roasted butternut squash to the skewers. spring calls for asparagus. get creative! swap the garam masala for a different spice blend and enjoy new flavours.
Nutrition 101: Eat well, be well
Alright, let's keep it simple. this easy recipe vegetarian is packed with protein from the paneer and vitamins from the veggies.
It's relatively low in carbs, making it a decent choice if you're watching your intake.
Key health benefits? the spices are fantastic for digestion, and the yogurt provides probiotics. just be mindful of the salt content, especially if you're using pre-made spice blends.
This easy indian appetizers can be part of a well-balanced diet!
Honestly, this tikka recipe for grilled paneer is a total winner. it's easy, adaptable, and packed with flavour. don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
Get grilling, have fun, and enjoy! you got this!

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I stop my paneer from sticking to the grill when I'm making paneer on grill?
No one wants a sticky situation! The key is to make sure your grill is properly preheated and oiled. Use a high-heat oil like vegetable or canola oil, and give the grill grates a good scrub before oiling. Also, patting the paneer dry with paper towels before grilling helps it get a better sear and reduces sticking, similar to how your mum makes sure the fish doesn't stick to the pan.
Can I marinate the paneer for paneer on grill overnight?
While a longer marinade might seem like a good idea, paneer is quite delicate. Marinating it for more than 4 hours can make it too soft and prone to breaking apart on the grill. Aim for a sweet spot of 30 minutes to 4 hours for optimal flavour infusion without compromising the texture, like letting a cup of tea steep just right!
What are some good variations for paneer on grill? Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely! For a flavour boost, try adding Tandoori Masala to the marinade for a Tandoori-style paneer. Alternatively, a lemon-herb marinade with fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary would be amazing. To make it vegan, swap the paneer with firm or extra-firm tofu (pressed to remove excess moisture) and use plant-based yogurt in the marinade. Just like swapping your dairy milk with oat milk, it's a breeze!
How do I store leftover grilled paneer, and how long will it last?
Leftover grilled paneer should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave; avoid overcooking, or it might become rubbery. Think of it like leftover Sunday roast – still good the next day, but not quite as perfect as when it's fresh!
Is paneer on grill healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Paneer is a good source of protein and calcium, making grilled paneer a relatively healthy option. It's also lower in carbohydrates than many other appetizers. However, be mindful of the amount of oil/ghee used and the salt content. Portion control and balanced sides like a fresh salad will ensure you're getting the most out of your "paneer on grill" experience!
Can I use a grill pan indoors to make paneer on grill if I don't have an outdoor grill?
Definitely! A grill pan is an excellent alternative if you don't have an outdoor grill. Just preheat the pan until it's nice and hot, lightly oil it, and cook the paneer skewers as you would on a regular grill. You'll still get those lovely grill marks and that delicious smoky flavour, even if you're stuck inside. Think of it as your trusty backup plan, like having a good old cuppa ready when the weather's a bit rubbish!
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