Paneer Tikka Pizza Topping: A Desi Twist to Your Favourite Pizza!

Namaste Doston! And a warm Sat Sri Akal to my Punjabi brothers and sisters! Chef Curry Do’pyaza here, ready to spice up your life, one delicious recipe at a time!

Today, we are not just cooking; we are creating a fusion masterpiece! Imagine the cheesy goodness of a pizza, but with a tantalizing Indian twist. Yes, my friends, we are talking about Paneer Tikka Pizza Topping!

This dish is a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for Diwali parties, Holi celebrations, or even just a cozy monsoon evening with chai. Any time is a good time for pizza, especially when it’s got a desi heart!

A Little History Lesson (with a Pinch of Masala!)

Paneer Tikka, as you know, is a beloved North Indian dish. Cubes of fresh paneer are marinated in a flavorful yogurt-based mixture and then grilled to perfection. Pizza, on the other hand, is an Italian classic. Now, who first thought of combining these two culinary worlds? Well, that’s a delicious mystery! But the result is undeniably amazing. It is a delightful marriage of cultures on a single, scrumptious slice!

Ready to Get Cooking?

Here’s what you need to know:

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes for marinating)
Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients: The Spice Rack’s Best Friends

Paneer: 250 grams (Indian Cheese), cut into 1-inch cubes
Dahi: 1/2 cup (Plain Yogurt), thick and creamy
Adrak-lehsun paste: 1 tablespoon (Ginger-Garlic Paste) – the dynamic duo!
Lal Mirch Powder: 1 teaspoon (Red Chili Powder) – for that fiery kick!
Haldi Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (Turmeric Powder) – for that golden glow!
Dhania Powder: 1 teaspoon (Coriander Powder) – for earthy aroma!
Garam Masala: 1/2 teaspoon (Garam Masala) – the soul of Indian spices!
Amchur Powder: 1/2 teaspoon (Dry Mango Powder) – for a tangy zing!
Besan: 1 tablespoon (Gram Flour) – to bind the marinade
Nimbu ka Ras: 1 tablespoon (Lemon Juice) – for freshness!
Tel: 2 tablespoons (Vegetable Oil) – for cooking
Pyaaz: 1 medium (Onion), thinly sliced
Shimla Mirch: 1/2 (Capsicum/Bell Pepper), thinly sliced (use green, red, or yellow for a colourful pizza!)
Pizza Sauce: As needed (store-bought or homemade)
Mozzarella Cheese: As needed, shredded (or any cheese you like!)
Hara Dhania: Fresh Coriander Leaves, chopped for garnish

Let’s Make Some Magic: Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Paneer: In a bowl, whisk together the dahi, adrak-lehsun paste, lal mirch powder, haldi powder, dhania powder, garam masala, amchur powder, besan, and nimbu ka ras. This is your flavorful marinade!
Gently add the paneer cubes to the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or even longer for a deeper flavour!).
Cook the Paneer Tikka: Heat tel in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated paneer cubes and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are lightly browned and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan! You might need to cook them in batches.
Prepare the Pizza Base: Spread pizza sauce evenly over your pizza base.
Layer the Toppings: Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Then, arrange the cooked paneer tikka pieces, sliced pyaaz, and shimla mirch on top.
Bake the Pizza: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizza from the oven and garnish with fresh hara dhania. Slice and serve hot!

Chef Curry’s Top Tips for a Perfect Paneer Tikka Pizza

Don’t overcook the paneer! It will become rubbery.
Use good quality paneer. Fresh, soft paneer makes all the difference.
Adjust the spice level to your liking. Add more or less lal mirch powder.
Get creative with your toppings! Add mushrooms, olives, or any other vegetables you enjoy.

Cooking it Your Way: Different Methods

Gas Stove: As described above, cooking the paneer tikka in a pan on the gas stove is the most common method.
Induction Stove: The same method applies as the gas stove. Adjust the heat settings as needed.
Oven: You can bake the paneer tikka in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Air Fryer: Air fry the marinated paneer at 180°C (350°F) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Microwave: While not ideal for achieving the best texture, you can microwave the marinated paneer for a few minutes until heated through. It will not get the charred flavour.

Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate)

Calories: 250-300
Protein: 15-20 grams
Fat: 15-20 grams
Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams

Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of mint chutney or raita for dipping.
Pair it with a refreshing glass of lassi or your favourite beverage.
Enjoy it as a snack, appetizer, or a light meal.

Now It’s Your Turn!

So there you have it, my friends! A simple, delicious, and oh-so-Indian Paneer Tikka Pizza Topping recipe. I urge you to try this recipe at home. Share the joy of this flavorful fusion with your friends and family. They will surely love it!