Paneer Tikka Quesadilla Filling: Desi Twist on a Mexican Favourite!

Paneer Tikka Quesadilla Filling: Desi Twist on a Mexican Favourite!

Namaste, and Sat Sri Akal, my food-loving friends! Chef Curry Do-Pyaza here, ready to spice up your life with a delightful fusion dish that’s sure to become a family favourite.

This recipe, my friends, is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, perfect for those festive gatherings, weekend brunches, or even a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Think Diwali parties, Holi celebrations, or even just a cozy monsoon evening with loved ones. It’s a dish that transcends seasons and occasions, bringing people together with its vibrant flavours.

Now, you might be wondering, “Chef, where did this brilliant idea come from?” Well, let me tell you a little story. I was once invited to a potluck party where everyone was bringing their favourite dishes. I wanted to create something unique, something that would capture the essence of Indian flavours while also appealing to a wider audience. That’s when the idea of Paneer Tikka Quesadilla Filling struck me! I combined the creamy, smoky goodness of Paneer Tikka with the comforting familiarity of a quesadilla. The result? A flavour explosion that everyone loved!

The Paneer Tikka, as you know, has its roots in the Mughal era, a time of royal feasts and culinary innovation. Marinated in yogurt and spices, it was traditionally cooked in a tandoor, a clay oven that imparts a unique smoky flavour. The quesadilla, on the other hand, is a Mexican staple, a simple yet satisfying dish of tortillas filled with cheese and other ingredients. Combining these two culinary traditions creates a dish that is both familiar and exciting.

So, are you ready to embark on this culinary adventure with me? Let’s get cooking!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients:

• 250 grams Paneer (Indian Cheese), cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup Dahi (Yogurt), thick and creamy
• 1 tablespoon Adrak-Lahsun Paste (Ginger-Garlic Paste), freshly made
• 1 teaspoon Lal Mirch Powder (Red Chilli Powder), for that fiery kick
• 1/2 teaspoon Haldi Powder (Turmeric Powder), for a golden hue
• 1 teaspoon Dhania Powder (Coriander Powder), for earthy notes
• 1/2 teaspoon Garam Masala, for that aromatic warmth
• 1/2 teaspoon Amchur Powder (Dry Mango Powder), for a tangy twist
• 1 tablespoon Nimbu ka Ras (Lemon Juice), freshly squeezed
• 2 tablespoons Tel (Cooking Oil), for sautéing
• 1 medium Pyaaz (Onion), finely chopped
• 1 medium Shimla Mirch (Capsicum/Bell Pepper), finely chopped (any colour you like!)
• 1/4 cup Hara Dhania (Fresh Coriander Leaves), chopped, for garnish
• Salt to taste
• 8 medium-sized Tortillas
• 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded (or any cheese that melts well)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Paneer: In a bowl, whisk together the thick and creamy dahi (yogurt), adrak-lahsun paste (ginger-garlic paste), lal mirch powder (red chilli powder), haldi powder (turmeric powder), dhania powder (coriander powder), garam masala, amchur powder (dry mango powder), nimbu ka ras (lemon juice), and salt. Add the paneer cubes and gently coat them with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes, or even better, for an hour in the refrigerator. This allows the paneer to absorb all those delicious flavours.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the tel (cooking oil) in a pan or wok over medium heat. Add the finely chopped pyaaz (onion) and sauté until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Then, add the chopped shimla mirch (capsicum/bell pepper) and sauté for another 5 minutes, until they are slightly softened but still have a nice crunch.
3. Cook the Paneer Tikka: Add the marinated paneer to the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the paneer is lightly browned and the marinade has thickened. Be careful not to overcook the paneer, as it can become rubbery.
4. Assemble the Quesadillas: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place a tortilla on the skillet. Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese over half of the tortilla. Spoon a generous amount of the paneer tikka filling over the cheese. Sprinkle some fresh hara dhania (coriander leaves). Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling.
5. Cook the Quesadillas: Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and gooey.
6. Serve: Remove the quesadilla from the skillet and cut it into wedges. Serve hot with your favourite dipping sauce, such as mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or even a dollop of plain yogurt.

Tips for Best Results:

• Use thick, creamy yogurt for the marinade. This will help the paneer stay moist and tender.
• Don’t overcook the paneer, as it can become rubbery.
• Use a good quality cheese that melts well.
• For a spicier filling, add more lal mirch powder (red chilli powder).
• Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, corn, or peas.

Cooking Variations:

• Gas Stove: Follow the instructions above using a regular pan or wok on a gas stove.
• Induction Stove: The same instructions apply for an induction stove.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Assemble the quesadillas as instructed and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
• Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Assemble the quesadillas as instructed and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
• Microwave: While not ideal for achieving a crispy tortilla, you can microwave the assembled quesadillas for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Nutritional Information (approximate per serving):

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or plain yogurt.
• Add a side of fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Cut into smaller pieces and serve as an appetizer.
• Pack it for lunch!

My dear friends, I urge you to try this delightful Paneer Tikka Quesadilla Filling at home. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Cook it with love, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and vegetables to create your own unique version. Share your culinary creations with your loved ones and spread the joy of delicious food!