Charcoal Grilled Paneer Skewers with Herb Marinade
When it comes to vegetarian grilling recipes, nothing steals the spotlight quite like Charcoal Grilled Paneer Skewers. Smoky, flavorful, and loaded with a punchy herb marinade, these skewers are perfect for summer barbecues, dinner parties, or even as a healthy protein-rich snack.
Paneer, often called the “Indian cottage cheese,” is loved not only for its creamy texture but also because it soaks up marinades beautifully. When grilled over charcoal, it develops a smoky char that rivals even the best meat kebabs. Combined with fresh herbs, yogurt, and spices, these skewers turn into a dish that is as nutritious as it is indulgent.
Whether you’re planning a vegetarian BBQ, looking for healthy high-protein dinner ideas, or simply want something quick yet impressive for guests, Charcoal Grilled Paneer Skewers with Herb Marinade should be your go-to.
Why Charcoal-Grilled Paneer Skewers Are So Popular
- They offer a restaurant-style grilled flavor at home without complicated cooking.
- Paneer is naturally high in protein and calcium, making this a nutrient-dense vegetarian recipe.
- The herb marinade, packed with mint, cilantro, garlic, and spices, adds freshness and zest.
- Unlike heavy curries, these skewers are light yet satisfying — ideal for health-conscious eaters.
Ingredients for Charcoal Grilled Paneer Skewers
For the Herb Marinade:
- 1 cup thick yogurt (Greek yogurt or hung curd works best)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or mustard oil for stronger flavor)
- ½ cup fresh cilantro leaves
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1-inch piece ginger
- 1 green chili (optional, for spice)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (or paprika for mild heat)
- Salt to taste
For the Skewers:
- 300 gms paneer, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, cut into square chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into squares
- Wooden or metal skewers
For Garnish:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Chaat masala
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Herb Marinade
- Blend mint, cilantro, ginger, garlic, green chili, and lemon juice into a smooth paste.
- Mix this paste with yogurt, olive oil, and powdered spices.
- Adjust salt and taste — marinade should be tangy, spicy, and aromatic.
Step 2: Marinate the Paneer and Veggies
- Add paneer cubes, onions, and bell peppers to the marinade.
- Mix gently so paneer doesn’t break.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight gives best flavor).
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
- Thread paneer, onion, and bell peppers alternately onto skewers.
- Ensure paneer cubes are coated well with marinade.
Step 4: Charcoal Grilling
- Heat a charcoal grill until red-hot and smoky.
- Place skewers on the grill, cook evenly on all sides for 10–12 minutes.
- Brush with oil or butter midway for extra char and juiciness.
- Remove when paneer is lightly charred and veggies are tender-crisp.
No charcoal grill? Use a stovetop grill pan or oven at 200°C, but add a piece of hot coal inside the oven with ghee for authentic smokiness.
Step 5: Serve
- Sprinkle with chaat masala, garnish with coriander, and serve hot with mint chutney.
Pro Tips for Perfect Charcoal Paneer Skewers
- Don’t over-marinate: Paneer can turn crumbly if left too long in yogurt.
- Use hung curd/Greek yogurt: Prevents watery marinade.
- Charcoal smoke hack: For stovetop versions, place a hot coal in a bowl inside the pan, drizzle with ghee, cover with lid for 2 minutes.
- Balanced threading: Alternate paneer and veggies for even cooking.
- Keep paneer moist: Brush with butter while grilling.
Nutritional Benefits
These skewers are:
- High in protein – Paneer supports muscle repair and growth.
- Rich in calcium – Good for bone health.
- Low-carb – Perfect for keto or low-carb diets.
- Nutrient-packed – Fresh herbs and bell peppers add fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C.
For those searching for healthy BBQ recipes or vegetarian high-protein meals, this dish ticks all the boxes.
Variations of Paneer Skewers
- Spicy Tandoori Paneer Skewers: Add extra chili and garam masala.
- Cheesy Skewers: Sprinkle grated cheese over paneer before grilling.
- Vegan Skewers: Replace paneer with tofu and yogurt with cashew paste.
- Mediterranean Twist: Use oregano, thyme, and olive oil instead of Indian spices.
Best Pairings
These skewers taste great with:
- Green mint chutney or yogurt dip
- Butter naan or pita bread
- Refreshing drinks like lassi or lemonade
They also make a great starter for Indian dinners or as part of a full BBQ platter.
Charcoal Paneer Skewers vs Tandoori Paneer Tikka
While both are grilled paneer recipes, there’s a difference:
- Paneer Tikka: Uses traditional Indian spices with a smoky tandoor flavor.
- Herb-Marinated Skewers: Fresher, herby flavor, lighter on the stomach.
Both are delicious, but herb-marinated skewers are often seen as a healthier and modern twist on traditional paneer tikka.
