How to Make Indian Vegetable Tikka
Indian Vegetable Tikka is a flavorful, colorful dish perfect for those who love the rich tastes of Indian cuisine. This dish features a variety of marinated vegetables that are grilled or roasted until they are tender and aromatic. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make Indian Vegetable Tikka at home.
Ingredients for Indian Vegetable Tikka
- 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), cut into cubes
- 1 cup zucchini, cut into thick slices
- 1 cup mushrooms, halved
- 1 cup paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons yogurt (plain or Greek)
- 2 tablespoons oil (olive or vegetable)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon tikka masala (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Wooden or metal skewers
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine yogurt, oil, ginger-garlic paste, tikka masala, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to create a thick marinade.
2. Marinate the Vegetables
Add the cubed bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, paneer, and cherry tomatoes to the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
3. Skewering the Vegetables
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated vegetables and paneer onto the skewers, alternating between different vegetables and cheese for visual appeal.
4. Cooking the Tikka
You can cook Indian Vegetable Tikka using various methods: grilling, baking, or stovetop. Here’s how:
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until the vegetables are cooked and slightly charred.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the skewers on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
- Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet or tawa over medium heat. Add a little oil and cook the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning frequently to ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Once the Indian Vegetable Tikka is cooked to perfection, remove it from the skewers and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with mint chutney or yogurt dip. Pair it with naan or basmati rice for a complete meal!
Tips for the Perfect Tikka
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, and onions for variety.
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavors significantly.
- Lime juice can be used instead of lemon for a different flavor profile.
Indian Vegetable Tikka is not only a great appetizer but also a healthy addition to any meal. Its vibrant colors and rich flavors are sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy this delightful dish and bring a taste of India to your home!