Delight in the vibrant flavors of Shandhar Hut’s Paneer Tikka, a vegetarian masterpiece that showcases the versatility of Indian cuisine with a touch of gourmet flair. Our expert chefs have perfected this beloved dish, offering you an authentic taste of India’s rich culinary heritage right here in Chilliwack. Generous cubes of our house-made paneer cheese are marinated in a zesty blend of yogurt and aromatic spices, then expertly grilled in our tandoor to achieve a golden char and a soft, creamy interior that’s utterly irresistible. The result is a dish that bursts with flavor, presenting a harmonious balance of tanginess from the yogurt, warmth from the spices, and a subtle smokiness from the tandoor. Whether you’re a vegetarian, a cheese lover, or simply looking to explore the diverse world of Indian flavors, our Paneer Tikka is sure to enchant your palate. It’s perfect as an appetizer, a main course, or as part of a shared feast, pairing beautifully with our tamarind chutney or nestled in a warm, buttery naan. Ideal for a light lunch, a romantic dinner, or as a crowd-pleasing addition to any celebration, Shandhar Hut’s Paneer Tikka offers a delightful explosion of textures and tastes that will transport you to the colorful streets of Mumbai with each exciting bite.

The origins of Paneer Tikka are intertwined with the culinary history of North India and the evolution of paneer itself. Here’s a brief history of this popular vegetarian dish. Paneer, the fresh cheese used in Paneer Tikka, has been a part of Indian cuisine for centuries. Its exact origins are debated, but it’s believed to have been introduced to India around the 16th century, possibly by Persian and Afghan rulers.

The concept of tikka, meaning “bits” or “pieces,” comes from the tradition of marinating and grilling small pieces of meat in tandoors (clay ovens). This cooking method has been prevalent in the Punjab region for thousands of years.

Paneer Tikka, as we know it today, is a relatively modern invention that likely emerged in the mid-20th century. It was created as a vegetarian alternative to the popular Chicken Tikka, catering to India’s large vegetarian population.

The dish gained popularity in North India, particularly in Punjab and Delhi, in the 1960s and 1970s. It coincided with the rising popularity of tandoori cuisine and the increasing availability of paneer to the general public.

As Indian cuisine spread globally, Paneer Tikka became a staple in Indian restaurants worldwide. Its mild flavor and interesting texture made it appealing to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

In recent years, variations of Paneer Tikka have emerged, including Paneer Tikka Masala (similar to Chicken Tikka Masala) and fusion dishes incorporating paneer tikka into sandwiches, pizzas, and more.

At Shandhar Hut, we honor the rich history of this dish by preparing our Paneer Tikka using traditional methods and high-quality, house-made paneer, offering our customers an authentic taste of this beloved North Indian delicacy.

It is our mission to become Chilliwack’s best restaurant for authentic Indian cuisine, and we believe the secret to our exceptional Chicken Tikka lies in our commitment to quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. We start with premium, locally-sourced chicken, carefully selected for its tenderness and flavor. The foundation of our marinade is thick, tangy yogurt, which not only tenderizes the meat but also imparts a subtle sourness that balances the spices perfectly. Our signature spice blend is a carefully guarded recipe, featuring the vibrant warmth of Kashmiri red chili powder, the earthy depth of turmeric, and the complex notes of garam masala. Fresh ginger and garlic paste add a potent aroma and flavor, while a squeeze of lemon juice brings a bright acidity to the mix. We also incorporate ajwain seeds for their unique, thyme-like flavor and digestion-aiding properties. The marinade is generously applied and left to work its magic for a full 24 hours, allowing the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat. Just before cooking, we brush the chicken with a mixture of mustard oil and butter, which helps create those irresistible char marks and adds a rich, nutty flavor. The chicken is then cooked in our traditional tandoor, imparting a distinctive smoky flavor that can’t be replicated by other cooking methods. The result is a dish that’s succulent, deeply flavorful, and beautifully charred – a true representation of the best in North Indian cuisine and a testament to our commitment to culinary excellence here at Shandhar Hut.

Embark on a culinary journey through the diverse flavors of India at Shandhar Hut. Our menu showcases a rich tapestry of traditional and contemporary dishes, from sizzling tandoor specialties to aromatic curries and vegetarian delights. Savor the crunch of our hand-crafted appetizers, indulge in our signature house curries, or explore the smoky depths of our tandoor-grilled meats and seafood. With gluten-free and dairy-free options available, we cater to all palates and dietary needs.