Introduction: Elevate your barbecue game with our Millet Paneer Tikka recipe. This vegetarian delight combines the richness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the nuttiness of millets and a medley of aromatic spices, resulting in a tantalizing appetizer or snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Join us as we delve into the steps to create this irresistible dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

For Marination:

• 200 grams paneer, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup mixed millets (any combination of foxtail millet, little millet, pearl millet, etc.), cooked
• 1/2 cup thick yogurt
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon oil
• Fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving
• Skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine thick yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, red chili powder, salt, and oil.
   • Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined to form a smooth marinade.
2. Marinate the Paneer and Millets:
   • Add paneer cubes and cooked millets to the marinade.
   • Gently toss until the paneer and millets are evenly coated with the marinade.
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Skewer the Paneer and Millets:
   • Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
   • Thread the marinated paneer cubes and millets onto the soaked skewers, alternating between paneer and millets.
4. Grill the Paneer Tikka:
   • Brush the grill or grill pan with oil to prevent sticking.
   • Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the paneer and millets are lightly charred and cooked through.
   • Rotate the skewers occasionally for even cooking and browning.
5. Serve:
   • Once the paneer tikka is grilled to perfection, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving plate.
   • Garnish with finely chopped fresh coriander leaves.
   • Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the tikka just before eating.

Variations:

• Add diced bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes between the paneer and millet cubes for added color and flavor.
• For a smoky flavor, you can grill the paneer tikka on a charcoal grill or add a few drops of liquid smoke to the marinade.
• Experiment with different marinade ingredients like kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), chaat masala, or yogurt-based dips.

Nutritional Information: Millet Paneer Tikka is a protein-rich appetizer that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Paneer provides protein and calcium, while millets offer complex carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This dish is also low in fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy and delicious choice for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Conclusion: Millet Paneer Tikka is a mouthwatering appetizer that’s perfect for grilling season or any special occasion. With its irresistible combination of paneer, millets, and aromatic spices, it’s sure to be a hit at your next barbecue or gathering. Try making it at home and savor the smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors of this delicious dish.