Paneer and vegetable skewers

Tips: Perfecting paneer and vegetable skewers

Learn how to make the finest paneer and vegetable skewers with our tips.

Pre-soaking wooden skewers

If you are using wooden skewers, it is a good idea to soak them in water for at least 20 to 30 minutes before frying. This helps prevent the skewers from burning while they cook, especially when exposed to high heat. It can also help minimise any charring of the wood and ensure that your skewers stay intact throughout the cooking process. If you use metal skewers, you do not need to soak them.

Preserving freshness and quality

To keep your paneer and vegetable skewers fresh and of the highest quality, store them in a sealed container and put them in the fridge. If you want to prepare them before an event, marinating and chilling them is a smart move. The spices will infuse the paneer and vegetables with rich flavour, making the skewers tastier when cooked.

If you want to freeze the skewers, wrap them tightly in cling film to avoid freezer burn and flavour loss. Eat them within four weeks to enjoy them at their best. Before serving them from the fridge or freezer, let them sit at room temperature briefly. This ensures they cook evenly and have the perfect texture.

Discover the joys of easy paneer and vegetable skewers

Paneer and vegetable skewers are a delightful treat that encapsulates the rich and varied flavours of Indian cuisine in a simple and fun format. We combine creamy paneer, a mild, firm Indian cheese that absorbs flavours wonderfully, and a colourful array of vegetables, including courgette and red and yellow peppers. The softness of the paneer perfectly complements the slight crunch of the lightly charred vegetables. The ease of preparation adds to the charm of this recipe, inviting even novice cooks to try their hand at it.

Marinated paneer with coriander, cumin, chilli powder, and turmeric

The secret to the rich flavour of these paneer and vegetable skewers lies in their marinade, a vibrant mix of traditional spices that are staples in Indian cooking. Coriander seeds, with their warm, nutty aroma, blend beautifully with the earthy bitterness of cumin. When these are toasted and ground, they release oils that enhance their intrinsic flavours. The chilli powder adds a gentle heat, while turmeric imparts a bright yellow hue and a peppery, slightly bitter flavour. This combination ensures that every skewer is moist and aromatic, making each bite unbelievably delicious.

Ideal pairings for paneer and vegetable skewers

The skewers impress on their own, but the right side dishes can enhance the experience. Pair them with fluffy basmati rice for a subtle foundation or a tangy mint and coriander chutney for a refreshing contrast. A cucumber raita can cool the palate, especially if the chilli is plentiful. Alternatively, you can wrap the skewers in warm naan or add a spoonful of raita or your chosen hot sauce for an extra kick. Mango salsa, with its mix of mango, avocado, mint, and lime, offers a fruity and vibrant side dish.

You can also enjoy the skewers with our tasty couscous tabbouleh, a refreshing strawberry watermelon salad, or a delicious Greek pasta salad.

Get creative with the recipe

While this recipe for paneer and vegetable skewers is a treat, do not hesitate to get creative and tailor it to your taste. Experiment with different vegetables, for example, mushrooms, onions, or cherry tomatoes, to add variety in flavour and colour.

Incorporating fruits such as pineapple or mango can introduce a sweet contrast to the savoury spices. For those who enjoy a bit more heat, adjusting the amount of chilli powder or adding freshly minced ginger to the marinade can provide an extra zing.

Switching up the spices – perhaps using garam masala for a more complex flavour or adding a pinch of saffron for a luxurious touch – can also transform the skewers into something new each time you make them.