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Food has a remarkable ability to bridge cultures and bring people together. As an Indian student studying in the UK, I have discovered the joy of combining traditional Indian flavours with the local ingredients found in this beautiful country. In this blog post, I will take you on a culinary adventure where the iconic Indian dish, Paneer Tikka, meets the distinct British delight of crumbled Stilton cheese. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a fusion dish that celebrates the harmonious blend of two vibrant culinary traditions.

Paneer Tikka, A Taste of India:

Paneer Tikka is a beloved Indian appetizer that combines marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with an array of aromatic spices. The soft and creamy texture of paneer, combined with the smoky flavours from the tandoor (traditional clay oven), creates a truly satisfying dish. Traditionally, Paneer Tikka is cooked with a medley of spices such as turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chilli powder, lending it a rich and vibrant taste.

Exploring British Ingredients:

In the UK, local ingredients play a significant role in the culinary scene. One such standout ingredient is Stilton cheese, known for its crumbly texture and distinctive blue veins. Stilton cheese is a true British classic, beloved for its complex and robust flavours. The creamy and tangy notes of Stilton perfectly complement the richness of paneer, making it an excellent candidate for our fusion dish.

The Fusion Delight:

Paneer Tikka with Crumbled Stilton Cheese: To create this fusion delight, we begin by marinating cubes of paneer in a blend of Indian spices. The marinade can consist of yoghurt, ginger, garlic, garam masala, and a touch of lemon juice for a tangy kick. The paneer absorbs the flavours of the marinade, creating a delicious contrast when cooked.

Next, instead of the traditional tandoor, we can use an oven or grill to cook the marinated paneer. The high heat will lend a smoky flavour reminiscent of the authentic tandoor experience. As the paneer cooks, its texture becomes slightly charred on the outside while remaining tender and creamy on the inside.

Now comes the fusion twist—crumbling Stilton cheese over the paneer tikka. The sharp and creamy Stilton adds a burst of flavour that beautifully complements the aromatic spices of the paneer. The crumbled Stilton cheese melts slightly over the warm paneer, creating a mouthwatering combination of textures and tastes.

One-pan paneer and spinach tikka masala recipe

Serving Suggestions and Pairings:

To complete the fusion experience, serve the Paneer Tikka with Crumbled Stilton Cheese alongside a side of mint chutney or tangy tamarind sauce. The cooling freshness of the mint chutney balances the bold flavours of the dish, while the tamarind sauce adds a touch of tanginess that enhances the overall taste. For a complete meal, pair this fusion delight with garlic naan bread or basmati rice. The soft and slightly charred paneer tikka, combined with the rich and tangy stilton cheese, creates a satisfying main course that will impress your taste buds and leave you craving more.

By infusing traditional Indian flavours with the local ingredients found in the UK, we have created a fusion delight—Paneer Tikka with Crumbled Stilton Cheese. This innovative dish combines the creamy richness of paneer tikka with the complex flavours of crumbled Stilton cheese, resulting in a harmonious blend of Indian and British culinary traditions.