Mango & Paneer Skewers with Mint-Lime Marinade

 

Mango & Paneer Skewers with Mint-Lime Marinade

So, as promised, we are finally starting the 'Mango Mania' series, and the first dish we're going to talk about is Mango & Paneer Skewers with Mint-Lime Marinade.

When I was first researching dishes, this one caught my eye. A sweet and savory combination of mango and paneer? I wasn't sure about its taste, or whether everyone would like it. But knowing the ingredients were easy and accessible, I decided to go forward and try making it anyway.

A little thing about me: I love working alone. I really don’t like anyone helping me in the kitchen, so sometimes the cooking process ends up being a therapy session for me – though it often means a long waiting time for everyone else in the house! In this attempt of mine, it ended up being the same solo session, and everyone in my house was waiting eagerly to try the mango & paneer skewers.

This was actually my very first time trying to make mango & paneer skewers, and I'll admit, I was nervous about the taste. I kept tasting the marinade, over and over, feeling like something was missing. I fiddled with it, trying to hit that perfect balance.

After what felt like a hundred small adjustments and a final tasting, I started the process of grilling the skewers. To be honest, the first batch wasn't perfect; it burned a bit, giving the skewers an unintentional smoky flavor. But that initial attempt was a great teacher! After that first batch, I quickly got an idea of the right temperature, and the rest started turning out beautifully.

The end result? Well, the presentation was excellent, and the taste? Even better!

The texture of the paneer, with its hint of lemon, honey, spices, and fresh mint, tasted so good. But most of all, the game-changer and true hero of the dish was the mango – it completely turned the tables! My mouth is still watering just thinking about that sweet-and-sour flavor, with its hint of mint, green chili, and aromatic spices. It truly was everything one needs to experience in a single dish.

I'll be attaching the recipe to the post. Feel free to try it and tell me how much you liked it!

Mango & Paneer Skewers with Mint-Lime Marinade

These vibrant skewers bring together the sweetness of mango, creamy paneer, and a refreshing mint-lime marinade. They're perfect for a light summer meal or appetizer, and a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal flavors!

Mango & Paneer Skewers with Mint-Lime Marinade 

Yields: 4 servings

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 10–12 mins

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Ingredients

For the Mint-Lime Marinade:

• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves (packed)
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander (packed)
• 2 green chilies (adjust to taste)
• 1-inch piece ginger, peeled
• 2 cloves garlic
• Juice of 2 limes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp honey (optional)
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste

For the Skewers:

• 250g paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 firm-ripe mango, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, diced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, diced into 1-inch pieces
• Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers for 30 mins)

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Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: Blend all marinade ingredients until smooth. Adjust seasoning.
2. Marinate the Paneer: Toss paneer cubes with half the marinade. Refrigerate for 30 minutes–1 hour. Keep the rest aside.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread paneer, mango, peppers, and onion, alternating colors.
4. Cook the Skewers:
   • Grill: Preheat to medium-high. Grill skewers for 10–12 mins, turning occasionally. Baste with extra marinade in the last few minutes.
   • Pan-Fry/Broil: Cook in a hot non-stick pan or broil in the oven until golden.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh mint and lime wedges. Serve hot with leftover marinade as dipping sauce. Add a sprinkle of chaat masala for extra zing!

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Notes

• Use a firm mango so it holds shape on the skewer.
• Paneer absorbs flavors better when marinated for longer.
• Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning.