Learn how to make authentic Paneer Lasooni Tikka at home — a smoky, garlicky, restaurant-style vegetarian starter. Step-by-step recipe, tips, storage, variations & FAQs.

Paneer Lasooni Tikka Recipe (Restaurant-Style)

Paneer Lasooni Tikka is one of the trendiest vegetarian starters of 2025, rising fast on Indian food searches thanks to its smoky garlic flavor, creamy marinade, and vibrant tandoori texture. This recipe uses authentic North Indian techniques while keeping prep simple enough for a home kitchen — no tandoor needed.

The rich lasooni (garlic-infused) marinade balances yogurt, spices, and roasted garlic to create a tikka that is aromatic, juicy, and perfect for parties, festivals, and dinner menus.

Why This Paneer Lasooni Tikka Recipe Stands Out

• Uses roasted garlic paste for deep aroma
• Achieves restaurant-level smokiness without a tandoor
• 100% vegetarian & perfect for grills, ovens, or stovetops
• Quick-marination formula that still delivers flavor
• Step-by-step instructions suitable for beginners

Ingredients for Paneer Lasooni Tikka

Paneer Lasooni Tikka Ingredients List

Main Ingredients (with focus keyword)

• 300g fresh paneer cubes (for Paneer Lasooni Tikka Recipe)
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 medium onion (cubed)
• 1 capsicum (red or green, cubed)

Garlic Marinade

• 1 cup thick curd
• 1.5 tbsp roasted garlic paste
• 1 tsp ginger paste
• 1 tsp red chilli powder
• ½ tsp haldi
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp kasuri methi
• 1 tsp chaat masala
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp besan (roasted)
• Salt to taste

Optional:

• ½ tsp Kashmiri red chilli for color

• 1 tbsp mustard oil for smoky flavor

How to Make Paneer Lasooni Tikka

Step-by-Step Paneer Lasooni Tikka Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lasooni Marinade

1. Whisk thick curd until smooth.

2. Add roasted garlic paste.

3. Mix in chilli powder, haldi, garam masala, kasuri methi, lemon juice, besan, and salt.

4. Add mustard oil for an authentic tandoori aroma.

Step 2: Marinate the Paneer

1. Add paneer cubes, onions, and capsicum to the marinade.

2. Gently coat everything, avoiding breaking the paneer.

3. Rest for at least 20 minutes (or 2 hours for maximum flavor).

Step 3: Cook the Tikka (3 Ways)

Stovetop Tawa Method

• Heat oil on cast iron tawa

• Place paneer cubes; cook until crispy edges appear

• Roast veggies briefly

Oven Method

• Preheat 230°C

• Line a tray with foil

• Bake 12–15 minutes + broil 2 minutes

Air Fryer Method (most trending)

• Preheat at 200°C

• Air fry 10–12 minutes, shaking once

Step 4: Add the Dhungar (Smoky) Effect

1. Place a small steel bowl in the pan

2. Add hot charcoal + ghee

3. Cover for 1 minute

4. Remove and serve hot

Serving Ideas

How to Serve Paneer Lasooni Tikka

• Serve with mint chutney
• Add chaat masala + lemon juice on top
• Pair with roti, naan, or jeera rice

Storage Instructions

How to Store Paneer Lasooni Tikka

• Marinated paneer: Refrigerate up to 24 hours

• Cooked tikka: Store airtight for 2 days

• Reheat: Air fry at low heat for best texture

Health Benefits

Is Paneer Lasooni Tikka Healthy?

• Rich in protein from paneer

• Uses roasted garlic for heart-healthy benefits

• Low-oil cooking methods keep calories balanced

Tips & Variations

Expert Tips for the Best Paneer Lasooni Tikka

• Always use thick curd to prevent watery marinade
• Add a pinch of black salt for restaurant-style flavor
• Use smoked paprika as a premium alternative to Kashmiri chilli
• For Jain version: Replace garlic with ginger + pepper mix

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Marination: 20 mins
• Cook Time: 15 mins
• Total Time: 45 mins
• Servings: 3

Useful Links

• Understanding Tandoori Marinades

• Guide to Using Mustard Oil in Indian Cooking

• How to Roast Garlic Properly

FAQs

1. What is Paneer Lasooni Tikka?

It is a garlic-rich paneer tikka variation made with roasted garlic marinade and smoky flavors.

2. Can I make the Paneer Lasooni Tikka Recipe without an oven?

Yes! The stovetop tawa method works perfectly.

3. Why is my paneer becoming hard?

Overcooking. Cook paneer only until golden edges appear.

4. Can I use homemade paneer?

Homemade paneer gives the softest results.

5. How to add more smokiness to the tikka?

Use the dhungar technique with charcoal for 1 minute.

Paneer Lasooni Tikka Recipe is one of the most flavorful, aromatic vegetarian starters you can prepare at home. With its roasted garlic essence, creamy marinade, and restaurant-style smokiness, it’s perfect for parties and everyday meals. Try it today and explore more paneer delights on Bhimascook!

Author Pack 

Author: Bhima — Vegetarian Indian Recipe Specialist