Paneer Tikka Bites

Paneer Tikka Bites are bite-sized cubes of paneer marinated in a mix of yogurt and Indian spices, then air fried to golden perfection. These flavorful bites are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and a great vegetarian alternative to traditional tikka. Serve them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal!

Times:

1. Preparation Time:
   • Marinating paneer: ~5 minutes
   • Refrigerating for marination: 30 minutes to 2 hours
2. Cooking Time:
   • Air frying: 10–12 minutes
3. Total Time:
   • ~40 minutes to 2 hours (with marination time)
4. Serves 2–3 people

Ingredients:

• Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) – 200g (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• Yogurt – 1/4 cup (thick, preferably Greek yogurt)
• Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
• Ginger-garlic paste – 1 teaspoon
• Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder – 1/4 teaspoon
• Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
• Cumin powder – 1/2 teaspoon
• Coriander powder – 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt – 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste)
• Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) – 1 teaspoon (optional)
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (for brushing)
• Fresh coriander leaves – for garnish (optional)
• Bell pepper and onion – 1/2 cup each, cut into cubes (optional, for extra flavor)

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Instructions:

1. Marinate the Paneer:

1. In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, coriander powder, salt, and kasuri methi (if using). Stir to make a smooth marinade.
2. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and gently mix to coat them evenly. Optionally, add the bell pepper and onion cubes to the marinade as well.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) for the flavors to soak in.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.

3. Air Fry the Paneer Tikka Bites:

1. Lightly brush the marinated paneer cubes with olive oil for a crispier texture.
2. Place the marinated paneer cubes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. If you’re adding bell peppers and onions, arrange them with the paneer cubes.
3. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the paneer is golden brown and crispy on the outside.

4. Serve:

• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve immediately with mint chutney, tamarind sauce, or yogurt dip.

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Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving – 4 pieces):

(Note: Based on using yogurt, paneer, and olive oil)

1. Calories: ~120 kcal
2. Carbohydrates: ~5g
3. Protein: ~8g
4. Fats: ~8g
   • Saturated Fat: ~5g
5. Fiber: ~1g
6. Sodium: ~350mg
7. Sugar: ~2g

Key Notes:

1. Customizing the Flavor:
   • If you like it spicy, add more red chili powder or even some green chili paste to the marinade. For a smoky flavor, you can add a drop of liquid smoke to the marinade (optional).
2. Tossing for Even Crispness:
   • Shake the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure all sides of the paneer are crispy and golden.
3. Serving Suggestions:
   • These paneer tikka bites pair wonderfully with a side of fresh salad, naan, or rice. They can also be served as a snack with chutneys.
4. Make-Ahead Tip:
   • Marinate the paneer in advance and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight. When ready to cook, simply air fry it!