Vegan Paneer Tikka: How to Make It in an Air Fryer or Oven

For those of us who love Indian food but want to keep things plant-based, paneer tikka might seem like something off-limits.

But guess what? It’s totally possible to make a vegan version of this classic dish, and it’s just as flavorful and satisfying.

With a few simple swaps—like using tofu instead of paneer—you can enjoy this crowd-pleaser without any dairy.

And the best part? You can make it in your Air Fryer or oven, cutting down on oil but keeping all the flavor.

If this sounds right up your street, keep reading. Below, we’ll share advice on making your own vegan Paneer Tikka at home.

What Is Vegan Paneer Tikka?

In the traditional recipe, paneer (Indian cottage cheese) is the star, marinated in a spiced yogurt mixture, along with bell peppers and onions, and then cooked in a tandoor.

But for a vegan version, we’ll be using tofu as the base, along with plant-based yogurt to keep the marinade rich and creamy.

Tofu is a great substitute because it soaks up the marinade’s flavors and has a similar texture when cooked.

Like the original, this vegan version can be served as a main or appetizer. It’s packed with flavor, super easy to make, and will become a family favorite in no time.

How To Make Vegan Paneer Tikka

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this plant-based dish at home:

• Firm Tofu: Tofu takes the place of paneer in this vegan recipe. Make sure to use firm or extra-firm tofu so it holds its shape. Press the tofu to remove excess water so it can absorb the marinade.
• Vegetables: You can’t have tikka without colorful bell peppers and onions! A mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers not only adds flavor but also makes the dish look vibrant. You can also add mushrooms or zucchini if you want more veggies.
• Vegan Yogurt: The marinade for tikka is yogurt-based. For this version, we’ll be using plain, unsweetened vegan yogurt. Coconut or almond-based yogurts work great, as they’re thick and creamy. Just avoid any flavored versions.
• Gram Flour: Also known as besan, this is used to help the marinade stick to the tofu and veggies. Toast it lightly for a nutty flavor that adds extra depth.
• Spices: You’ll need garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, chat masala, Kashmiri red chili powder, and garam masala. Fenugreek leaves (Kasuri methi) are optional but add great flavor if you have them.
• Oil: A little oil goes a long way, especially if you’re using an Air Fryer. You can use vegetable or olive oil for brushing or spraying on the skewers.
• Extras: Fresh cilantro and lemon juice are perfect for garnishing and brightening the dish just before serving.

Vegan Paneer Tikka Ingredients

• Firm or Extra-Firm Tofu – 400g (14 oz), pressed to remove excess water
• Bell Peppers (red, yellow, and green) – 1 of each, cut into cubes
• Onion – 1 large, cut into cubes
• Optional Veggies: Mushrooms or zucchini – 1 cup, sliced
• Plain, Unsweetened Vegan Yogurt – ½ cup (coconut or almond-based)
• Gram Flour (besan) – 2 tablespoons, toasted
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger – 1 tablespoon, grated
• Turmeric Powder – ½ teaspoon
• Cumin Powder – 1 teaspoon
• Chat Masala – 1 teaspoon
• Kashmiri Red Chili Powder – 1 teaspoon
• Garam Masala – 1 teaspoon
• Fenugreek Leaves (Kasuri methi) – 1 teaspoon (optional)
• Vegetable or Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, plus extra for brushing or spraying
• Fresh Cilantro – 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon (for garnish)

Vegan Paneer Tikka In The Air Fryer

Making vegan paneer tikka in the Air Fryer is a quick and healthy way to get that crispy, charred effect without a ton of oil.

• Marinate the Tofu and Veggies: In a large bowl, mix vegan yogurt, toasted gram flour, spices, lemon juice, and a little oil. Stir until everything is well combined. Add the cubed tofu, bell peppers, and onions, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, let it marinate overnight.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your Air Fryer to 360°F (180°C). While it heats, soak wooden skewers in water for about 10 minutes to prevent burning.
• Cook the Tikka: Thread the marinated tofu and veggies onto the skewers, alternating between tofu and vegetables. Place the skewers in the Air Fryer basket, making sure they’re spaced out for even cooking. Brush or spray a little oil over them. Cook for 5 minutes, flip, then cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tofu is golden and slightly charred.
• Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon. Serve with green chutney or a cooling vegan raita.

Vegan Paneer Tikka In The Oven

No Air Fryer? No problem! You can easily make this vegan paneer tikka in the oven, and it’s just as delicious.

• Marinate: Follow the same marination process as above.
• Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
• Arrange the Skewers: Thread the marinated tofu and vegetables onto the soaked skewers and place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between them. Brush or spray with a little oil.
• Bake and Broil: Bake for about 10 minutes, then broil on high for 2-3 minutes to get that nice, crispy finish.
• Serve: Garnish with cilantro and lemon, and enjoy!

Our Top Tips For Perfect Vegan Paneer Tikka

To make sure your vegan Paneer Tikka is beautiful every time, bear these tips in mind:

• Press the Tofu: Make sure you press your tofu before marinating it to remove excess water. This helps the tofu absorb the flavors better.
• Marinate Longer: If possible, marinate the tofu and veggies overnight to really let the flavors soak in.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on your tofu while cooking to avoid it becoming too dry or rubbery.

Serving Suggestions For Vegan Paneer Tikka

Paneer tikka is traditionally served as an appetizer, but there are lots of ways to make this vegan version shine.

Here are a few of our family favorites:

• With Green Chutney: A tangy cilantro-mint chutney is the perfect dip to serve with your vegan paneer tikka. It adds a fresh contrast to the smoky flavors of the tofu and veggies.
• Onion Slices and Lemon Wedges: Simple, crunchy onion slices and a squeeze of lemon bring a fresh element to this dish.
• Vegan Mango Lassi: Pair this dish with a refreshing vegan mango lassi made with coconut or almond yogurt for a complete Indian-inspired meal.

Storing Leftover Vegan Paneer Tikka

Vegan paneer tikka is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers (unlikely, we know!), here’s how to store them:

• In The Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat in the Air Fryer or oven for the best results.
• Freezing: Tofu freezes better than paneer, so you can freeze leftover tikka if needed. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly once reheated.

Vegan Paneer Tikka Variations

Looking to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs? Here are a few variations:

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check that your vegan yogurt and spices don’t contain any hidden gluten.
• Soy-Free: If you’re avoiding soy, you can substitute tofu with seitan or use extra vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms for a different twist.

Final Thoughts

Vegan paneer tikka is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family meals, BBQs, or even as a quick weeknight dinner.

The Air Fryer or oven makes it easy to prepare with less oil but all the flavor you crave.

Whether you’re introducing your family to new flavors or whipping up a plant-based version of an Indian classic, this vegan paneer tikka is sure to be a hit.

Frequently Asked Questions