Smoky Tandoori Paneer Tikka Wraps with Zesty Mint Crema

🌍 Cuisine: Indian
🏷️ Category: Main Course
⏱️ Prep: 30 minutes
🍳 Cook: 20 minutes
👥 Serves: 4 servings

📝 About This Recipe

Experience the vibrant spirit of Delhi's bustling street food stalls with this smoky, spice-infused Paneer Tikka Wrap. Succulent cubes of paneer are marinated in a bold yogurt-spice blend, charred to perfection, and nestled in a warm, buttery paratha. Finished with crunchy pickled onions and a cooling mint chutney, this wrap offers a masterful balance of heat, tang, and creamy indulgence in every bite.

🥗 Ingredients

Paneer & Marinade

  • 400 grams Paneer (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (thick and hung)
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger-Garlic Paste (freshly ground)
  • 1 tablespoon Kashmiri Red Chili Powder (for vibrant color and mild heat)
  • 1 teaspoon Garam Masala (high quality blend)
  • 1 tablespoon Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves, crushed)
  • 1 tablespoon Mustard Oil (for authentic smoky flavor)

The Wrap & Veggies

  • 4 pieces Flour Tortillas or Laccha Parathas (warmed)
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers (sliced into thin strips)
  • 1 large Red Onion (thinly sliced into rings)
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice (to macerate onions)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro (chopped)

Mint Chutney Sauce

  • 1 cup Fresh Mint Leaves (packed)
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro (stems included)
  • 2 pieces Green Chilies (adjusted to spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon Chaat Masala (for tanginess)
  • 3 tablespoons Mayonnaise or Thick Yogurt (to create a creamy spread)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, Kashmiri chili powder, garam masala, crushed kasuri methi, mustard oil, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

  2. 2

    Gently fold the paneer cubes and sliced bell peppers into the marinade. Ensure every piece is well-coated. Let this rest for at least 20-30 minutes; the longer it marinates, the deeper the flavor.

  3. 3

    While the paneer marinates, prepare the 'Lachha' onions by tossing the sliced red onion rings with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Set aside to soften and pickle slightly.

  4. 4

    Prepare the mint crema: Blend the mint, cilantro, green chilies, and chaat masala with a splash of water until a thick paste forms. Fold this paste into the mayonnaise or yogurt until well combined.

  5. 5

    Heat a non-stick grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of oil.

  6. 6

    Place the marinated paneer and peppers onto the hot pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, allowing a charred, golden-brown crust to form on the edges.

  7. 7

    Optional Smoky Step: Place a small piece of glowing charcoal in a steel bowl, set it in the center of the paneer pan, pour a drop of ghee on the coal, and cover the pan for 2 minutes to infuse a tandoori aroma.

  8. 8

    Warm your parathas or tortillas on a flat griddle until they are pliable and slightly toasted.

  9. 9

    To assemble, lay a warm paratha flat. Spread a generous tablespoon of the mint crema down the center.

  10. 10

    Place a portion of the grilled paneer and peppers over the sauce.

  11. 11

    Top with a handful of the macerated onions and fresh cilantro.

  12. 12

    Fold the bottom of the wrap up, then roll tightly from one side to the other. Wrap the bottom half in parchment paper or foil to hold it together.

💡 Chef's Tips

For the best texture, soak store-bought paneer in warm water for 10 minutes before marinating to make it extra soft. Don't skip the mustard oil in the marinade; it provides the signature 'bite' found in authentic street-style tikkas. If you don't have a grill pan, use a standard skillet but avoid overcrowding to ensure the paneer sears rather than steams. For a vegan version, substitute paneer with extra-firm tofu and use cashew-based yogurt and vegan mayo. Always warm your wraps right before serving to prevent them from cracking when rolled.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with a side of extra mint chutney and a lemon wedge for squeezing. Pairs beautifully with a chilled Mango Lassi to balance the spices. Add a side of masala fries or crispy vegetable pakoras for a full street food feast. Enjoy with a glass of Thums Up or Masala Soda for the ultimate Indian fast food experience. A side of sweet tamarind chutney can be added for those who enjoy a 'Khatta Meetha' (sweet and sour) flavor profile.