Tandoori Kebab with Charred Vegetables Recipe
If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant aromas and a smoky charm, then you’re in for a treat with this incredible Tandoori Kebab with Charred Vegetables. This recipe captures the magic of tender, spice-kissed chicken cubes grilled alongside colorful vegetables that have that perfect char. Every bite is a celebration of bold tastes and textures, making it a fantastic choice whether you’re entertaining friends or enjoying a cozy meal at home. The combination of intense tandoori spices and the subtle sweetness from the charred veggies will quickly make this one of your favorite go-to dishes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in crafting the layers of flavor and texture that give Tandoori Kebab with Charred Vegetables its unforgettable appeal. From the creamy tang of yogurt to the earthy heat of tandoori masala, every element works harmoniously.
- 500g chicken breast, cut into cubes: Choose fresh, lean chicken to ensure juicy kebabs that soak up the marinade wonderfully.
- 1 cup yogurt: Acts as the tenderizing base and adds a creamy tang that balances the spices beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons tandoori masala: This spice blend is the heart of the dish, delivering that quintessential tandoori flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste: Provides a fragrant kick that enhances the overall profile with warmth and depth.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and a subtle zesty layer that lifts the flavors.
- Salt to taste: Essential to bring out all the wonderful spices and natural flavors.
- 2 tablespoons oil: Keeps the chicken moist and helps develop a slight crispness when grilling.
- 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks: Adds sweetness and vibrant color to your kebabs.
- 1 onion, cut into chunks: Delivers mild sharpness and caramelizes beautifully over the heat.
- 1 zucchini, sliced: Brings a tender texture and earthiness that complements the spices.
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water: Prevents burning during grilling and makes handling easy and safe.
How to Make Tandoori Kebab with Charred Vegetables
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
The secret to juicy, flavorful kebabs lies in the marinade. Combine the yogurt, tandoori masala, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, salt, and oil in a large bowl, then toss in the cubed chicken. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated in this vibrant marinade. Cover and let it rest for at least an hour — though if you can plan ahead, marinating overnight will deepen the flavors and yield an even more tender bite.
Step 2: Prep the Vegetables
While the chicken marinates, it’s the perfect time to prepare the veggies. Toss the chunks of bell pepper, onion, and zucchini with a little oil and a pinch of salt. This simple step boosts their natural flavors and helps them to char beautifully when grilled, offering a smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spiced chicken.
Step 3: Skewer the Ingredients
Thread the marinated chicken and prepared vegetables alternately onto the soaked wooden skewers. This makes for a colorful presentation and ensures every skewer has a balanced mix of juicy meat and crisped veggies. Alternate pieces to keep the flavors and textures interesting with each bite.
Step 4: Grill the Kebabs
Preheat your grill or tandoor to medium-high, then place the skewers on the grate. Grill them for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning every few minutes to get an even char on all sides. You’ll notice the enticing smoky aroma as the chicken cooks through and the vegetables develop those beautiful char marks that add both flavor and texture.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Once cooked, carefully remove the kebabs from the skewers and serve immediately. The combination of the succulent tandoori chicken with the charred sweetness of the vegetables creates an irresistible, hearty dish that’s best enjoyed fresh from the grill.
How to Serve Tandoori Kebab with Charred Vegetables
Garnishes
To elevate your Tandoori Kebab with Charred Vegetables, sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro or mint leaves on top for a burst of freshness. A wedge of lemon on the side lets everyone add a bright squeeze if they wish, cutting through the rich spices and balancing the smoky elements.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs brilliantly with soft naan bread or warm basmati rice to soak up the delicious juices. For a cooling contrast, a dollop of cucumber raita or a simple mint yogurt sauce is just perfect, soothing the palate while complementing every bite of your kebab.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, assemble the grilled chicken and veggies on a long platter and garnish with colorful pomegranate seeds or toasted nuts for crunch. You can also serve the skewers on mini wooden boards or wrap the kebabs in warm flatbreads with fresh salad greens for a festive handheld treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Tandoori Kebab with Charred Vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This allows the flavors to mellow and makes for a delicious next-day meal that’s easy to reheat.
Freezing
If you want to keep this flavorful dish longer, freeze the cooked kebabs in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will stay good for up to a month. When freezing, keep the chicken and vegetables on the skewers to maintain structure and ease of reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the kebabs in an oven or on a grill to help retain their juicy texture and smoky char. Avoid microwaving if you can, as that may dry out the meat and soften that lovely char on the vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use other meats for Tandoori Kebab with Charred Vegetables?
Absolutely! While chicken breast is common, you can also try lamb, beef, or even paneer for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
How spicy is this dish?
The dish has a warm, moderate spice level thanks to the tandoori masala. If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount of masala or remove the chili components if your blend contains any. You can always add heat later with spicy chutneys or hot sauce.
Do I need a tandoor or special grill to make this?
No special equipment is required! A regular barbecue grill, stovetop grill pan, or even your oven’s broiler can deliver delicious results with the right technique.
What can I substitute if I don’t have tandoori masala?
You can create a homemade version using a blend of ground spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and garam masala. This mix will still give you plenty of those authentic tandoori flavors.
Is yogurt necessary in the marinade?
Yogurt is key to tenderizing the chicken and helping the spices adhere well. If you don’t have yogurt, you might try buttermilk or a dairy-free yogurt alternative, but fresh yogurt gives the best classic texture and taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into juicy, spice-packed chicken intermingled with sweet, smoky vegetables. This Tandoori Kebab with Charred Vegetables recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients, combined with love and care, can transform into an unforgettable meal. I hope you have as much fun making and sharing this dish as I do — it’s truly a crowd-pleaser that feels special every time.
