Wasabi Masala Paneer Tikka

Wasabi Masala Paneer Tikka is an innovative fusion dish that combines the rich flavors of Indian spices with the spicy, horseradish kick of Japanese wasabi. The dish is perfect for those who love experimenting with global flavors, offering a tantalizing twist on the traditional Indian Paneer Tikka. This dish highlights the versatility of paneer and showcases how it can be adapted into various cuisines. Paneer Tikka traditionally involves marinated paneer grilled to perfection, capturing the essence of Indian barbecue. By incorporating wasabi, we introduce an exhilarating taste profile that excites the palate with unexpected heat that pairs beautifully with the warming spices.

Ingredients

For this dish, you will need the following ingredients, each crucial to bring out the unique flavors of Wasabi Masala Paneer Tikka:

• Paneer - 500 gms, cubed
• Wasabi Paste - 1 tablespoon
• Yogurt - 1 cup, preferably thick
• Ginger Paste - 1 tablespoon
• Garlic Paste - 1 tablespoon
• Cumin Powder - 1 teaspoon
• Coriander Powder - 1 teaspoon
• Garam Masala - 1 teaspoon
• Red Chili Powder - 1 teaspoon
• Salt to taste
• Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Lemon Juice - 2 tablespoons
• Capsicum - 1, diced into large chunks
• Onion - 1 large, diced into large chunks
• Skewers

Preparation

Preparing Wasabi Masala Paneer Tikka involves a few simple steps that are crucial to infuse all the rich flavors into the paneer. Below is a detailed guide to marination and preparation before cooking:

Marination

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, wasabi paste, ginger paste, and garlic paste to form a smooth mixture.
2. Add cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and red chili powder to the mixture. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
3. Season with salt according to taste.
4. Add lemon juice and oil to the marinade. Mix thoroughly.
5. Gently fold in the paneer cubes, ensuring each piece is coated evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to seep into the paneer.
6. Add the diced capsicum and onion to the marinated paneer 30 minutes before cooking to impart a subtle flavor to the vegetables.

Cooking Process

The actual cooking process of Wasabi Masala Paneer Tikka is what takes the preparation to another level. Here’s how you can achieve perfectly grilled paneer tikka:

Grilling

1. Preheat the grill or oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Thread the paneer, capsicum, and onion onto the skewers in an alternating pattern for visual appeal and even cooking.
3. Place the skewers on the grill rack or in the oven.
4. Grill for about 15-20 minutes, rotating often to ensure even cooking and a slightly charred appearance. For an extra smoky flavor, allow some parts to darken more.
5. Baste midway with some oil to maintain moisture and enhance the charring effect.
6. Once the paneer is golden and crispy on the edges, remove from the grill.

The total cooking time may vary slightly based on the thickness of the paneer cubes and the heat intensity.

How to Enjoy

Once your Wasabi Masala Paneer Tikka is ready, it's time to enjoy this delightful creation. Here are some serving suggestions and tips:

• Serve immediately after grilling for the best texture and flavor.
• Pair with a mint chutney or a yogurt-based dip to balance the heat of the wasabi.
• Present the skewers over a bed of lettuce or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• To enhance the fusion experience, consider serving with a bowl of soy sauce or a light teriyaki drizzle on the side.
• For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds over the grilled paneer before serving.

Enjoy your Wasabi Masala Paneer Tikka as a starter, side dish, or a main when combined with rice or naan.

This dish makes a perfect appetiser for dinner parties, a special treat for family gatherings, or a unique addition to your regular meal rotation.