Indian Paneer Tikka Sandwich Recipe

Paneer: A type of Indian cottage cheese that is firm and doesn't melt when cooked.

Bread: Use your favorite type of bread for the sandwich base.

Yogurt: Adds creaminess and helps the spices adhere to the paneer.

Ginger garlic paste: A blend of ginger and garlic that adds depth of flavor.

Garam masala: A blend of ground spices commonly used in Indian cooking.

Red chili powder: Adds heat and color to the marinade.

Chaat masala: A tangy spice mix often sprinkled on snacks.

Lemon juice: Adds a fresh, tangy flavor to the marinade.

Oil: Helps in grilling the paneer and toasting the bread.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

When marinating the paneer, ensure that each cube is evenly coated with the yogurt mixture. This will help the flavors penetrate the paneer more effectively. Additionally, using a grill pan with ridges will give the paneer a beautiful char and enhance its texture. For an extra burst of flavor, you can also add a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade.

• cubed paneer - Substitute with firm tofu: Firm tofu has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making it a good plant-based alternative.

• bread - Substitute with whole wheat bread: Whole wheat bread adds more fiber and nutrients, making the sandwich healthier.

• yogurt - Substitute with coconut yogurt: Coconut yogurt is a good dairy-free alternative that still provides a creamy texture.

• ginger garlic paste - Substitute with minced ginger and garlic: Freshly minced ginger and garlic can provide a more robust flavor.

• garam masala - Substitute with curry powder: Curry powder can offer a similar depth of flavor, though it may be slightly different in taste.

• red chili powder - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar level of heat and can be used in the same quantity.

• chaat masala - Substitute with lemon pepper seasoning: Lemon pepper seasoning can provide a tangy and slightly spicy flavor, similar to chaat masala.

• lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice offers a similar acidity and citrus flavor, making it a good alternative.

• oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and can be used in the same quantity.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a direct substitute and may offer a slightly different mineral content.

• Allow the paneer tikka to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the bread soggy.
• Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent them from sticking together.
• Place the wrapped sandwiches in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This will help keep them fresh and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
• Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of how long they have been stored.
• Store the sandwiches in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 2-3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer.
• When freezing, ensure the sandwiches are placed in a single layer initially. Once they are frozen solid, you can stack them to save space.
• To reheat, remove the sandwich from the plastic wrap or foil and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the sandwich in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warm and crispy.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, reheat the sandwich on a grill pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side.
• Serve the reheated paneer tikka sandwich with your favorite chutney or sauce for an extra burst of flavor.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the paneer tikka sandwich in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Use a skillet or pan on the stovetop. Heat the pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Place the sandwich in the pan and cover it with a lid. Heat for about 3-5 minutes on each side until the bread is crispy and the paneer is hot.

• For a quick reheat, use a microwave. Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure it heats evenly.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwich on the rack or a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until the bread is crispy and the paneer is warmed through.

• For an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwich in the air fryer basket and heat for about 3-5 minutes, checking halfway to ensure it heats evenly and the bread remains crispy.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the yogurt, ginger garlic paste, garam masala, red chili powder, chaat masala, lemon juice, oil, and salt to create the marinade.

• Grill pan: This is essential for grilling the marinated paneer cubes until they are golden brown on all sides and for toasting the bread slices until crispy.

• Spatula: Handy for turning the paneer cubes on the grill pan to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.

• Tongs: Useful for handling the hot bread slices and paneer cubes without burning your fingers.

• Knife: Needed for cutting the paneer into cubes if it isn't pre-cubed.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the paneer.

• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of the yogurt, spices, and oil for the marinade.

• Serving plate: Use this to serve the assembled paneer tikka sandwiches hot with your favorite chutney or sauce.

Prepare the marinade ahead: Mix the yogurt, ginger garlic paste, garam masala, red chili powder, chaat masala, lemon juice, oil, and salt the night before to save time.

Pre-cut the paneer: Cube the paneer in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Use a grill pan efficiently: Grill the paneer and toast the bread simultaneously to save cooking time.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and store extra grilled paneer for quick assembly later in the week.

Pre-toast the bread: Toast the bread slices in advance and keep them in an airtight container to maintain crispiness.