“Creamy Delight: Malai Tikka Recipe”

Introduction:

If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, you’re likely no stranger to the delicious world of tikkas. Among the many mouthwatering variations, Malai Tikka stands out for its creamy and indulgent flavor. This dish is a perfect appetizer for parties or a delightful main course option. In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this rich and flavorful Malai Tikka at home.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

1. 500 grams boneless chicken pieces (you can also use paneer or vegetables for a vegetarian option)
2. 1 cup thick yogurt
3. 2 tablespoons fresh cream (malai)
4. 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
5. 1 teaspoon green chili paste (adjust to taste)
6. 1 teaspoon garam masala
7. 1 teaspoon red chili powder
8. 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
9. Salt to taste
10. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
11. 2 tablespoons grated cheese (optional for added richness)
12. 2 tablespoons cashew paste (blend soaked cashews to a smooth paste)
13. 2 tablespoons roasted besan (gram flour)
14. 2 tablespoons oil
15. Skewers (wooden or metal, if using wooden, soak them in water for 30 minutes)

For Garnish:

1. Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
2. Lemon wedges
3. Onion rings

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Clean and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using paneer or vegetables, cut them into similar-sized pieces.
2. Marinade Preparation: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, fresh cream, ginger-garlic paste, green chili paste, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, salt, lemon juice, grated cheese (if using), cashew paste, and roasted besan. Mix everything thoroughly to form a smooth marinade.
3. Marinate the Protein: Add the chicken pieces (or paneer/vegetables) to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. This allows the flavors to penetrate the protein.
4. Skewer the Pieces: Preheat your grill or oven to 180°C (350°F). Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
5. Grilling or Baking: Brush the chicken skewers with oil and place them on the grill or in the preheated oven. Grill or bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a beautiful golden-brown color. You can also use a stovetop grill pan for this purpose.
6. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the Malai Tikka from the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves, lemon wedges, and onion rings. Serve hot with mint chutney and naan or roti.

Conclusion:

Malai Tikka is a delightful and creamy Indian dish that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. With its rich and flavorful marinade, it’s a perfect choice for a special occasion or when you’re simply craving some indulgent comfort food. Follow this recipe, and you’ll be able to recreate the magic of Malai Tikka in the comfort of your own kitchen. Enjoy!