A Perfect Party Appetizer – Air Fryer Chutney Paneer Tikka
Paneer Tikka is a crowd-favorite snack, often enjoyed for its smoky flavors and soft, melt-in-the-mouth texture. While traditionally cooked in a tandoor or pan-fried with oil, an air fryer version offers the same delicious taste with significantly less oil. This Chutney Paneer Tikka is a refreshing twist, infused with the vibrant flavors of coriander, mint, and spices, making it a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
Why Do People Avoid Healthy Paneer Snacks?
Despite being a great source of protein and calcium, paneer-based snacks are often overlooked due to their high-calorie content when deep-fried or excessively coated with butter and cream. Many people associate paneer dishes with heavy restaurant-style cooking, assuming they can’t enjoy it guilt-free at home. Moreover, making tandoori-style paneer at home can seem complicated, leading people to stick to simpler, less nutritious options.
With an air fryer, you can enjoy the goodness of Chutney Paneer Tikka without the extra oil or hassle. It’s easy to prepare, healthy, and full of flavors, making it an excellent choice for weight-watchers and food lovers alike.
Nutritional Benefits of Chutney Paneer Tikka
Paneer is an excellent source of protein, making it ideal for vegetarians looking to meet their daily protein intake. It also contains calcium, which helps strengthen bones and teeth. The inclusion of curd in the marination enhances digestion by promoting gut-friendly probiotics.
The green chutney, made from mint, coriander, and lemon juice, not only adds a refreshing taste but also offers essential vitamins and antioxidants. Mint aids digestion, while coriander supports heart health. The minimal use of oil in this recipe further ensures a low-calorie, high-protein snack that satisfies cravings without compromising on health.
How to Make Chutney Paneer Tikka in an Air Fryer
Start by preparing the chutney. In a mixer jar, add a small bunch of mint leaves (pudina), a small bunch of coriander, 2 green chilies, chopped garlic, and ginger. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon and add a little water. Grind everything into a smooth chutney that will be used for marination.
Next, take a mixing bowl and add ¾ cup of curd (dahi). Mix in the prepared chutney along with salt as per taste, 1 teaspoon of gram flour (besan), and 1 teaspoon of oil. Stir well to create a thick, flavorful marinade. Add paneer cubes and mix gently, ensuring each cube is well-coated. Let the paneer marinate for 30-45 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
Preheat the air fryer to 200°C. Place the marinated paneer cubes in the air fryer basket and cook for approximately 12 minutes. After 7 minutes, check and brush a little oil on the cubes for an even texture. For added flavor, toss sliced capsicum and onion in the remaining marinade and air fry them for 5 minutes. Finally, insert the paneer and veggies onto toothpicks or skewers and serve hot with mint chutney.
Conclusion
Chutney Paneer Tikka in an air fryer is a perfect balance of taste and health. With its spicy, tangy flavors and soft, smoky texture, it makes for an irresistible appetizer or evening snack. The air fryer method ensures minimal oil usage while maintaining the rich flavors of a traditional tikka. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed dish or simply want to try a new paneer recipe, this version is a must-try. Enjoy it with your favorite chutney and a squeeze of lemon for an extra zing!
