Easy Shahi Paneer Recipe

Introduction to Shahi Paneer

Shahi Paneer is a popular North Indian dish made with soft paneer cubes simmered in a rich, creamy, and aromatic gravy. It is perfect for special occasions, parties, or when you want to indulge in a delicious meal. This easy Shahi Paneer recipe will help you create a restaurant-style dish right in your kitchen with minimal effort. Let's dive in!

Ingredients

For the Paneer

  • 200g paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
  • 2 cups water
  • A pinch of salt

For the Gravy

  • 2 large onions, chopped
  • 3 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/4 cup cashews, soaked in warm water
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup ghee (clarified butter) or oil
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • Salt, to taste
  • A pinch of sugar (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (coriander) for garnishing
Read Also : The Foodie Guyz

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Paneer

  1. In a large bowl, mix the paneer cubes with water and a pinch of salt. Let them soak for 15-20 minutes. This helps soften the paneer and make it more tender.
  2. Drain the water and set the paneer aside.

Step 2: Preparing the Onion-Tomato Paste

  1. In a blender, add the chopped onions, tomatoes, and soaked cashews.
  2. Blend until you get a smooth paste. Set aside.

Step 3: Cooking the Gravy

  1. Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
  3. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the onion-tomato paste and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
  6. Stir in the milk and heavy cream, blending well with the masala mixture. Bring the gravy to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  7. Taste the gravy and adjust salt or add a pinch of sugar if needed to balance the flavors.

Step 4: Assembling the Dish

  1. Add the prepared paneer cubes to the gravy and gently mix to coat them evenly.
  2. Simmer the Shahi Paneer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors of the gravy.
  3. Garnish with chopped cilantro (coriander) and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Shahi Paneer with warm naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. You can also pair it with a refreshing cucumber raita and a side of tangy Indian pickle for a complete, satisfying meal.

Tips and Tricks

  • To make the dish even more indulgent, you can lightly fry the paneer cubes in ghee or oil before adding them to the gravy. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
  • If you prefer a smoother gravy, you can strain the onion-tomato paste through a sieve before cooking.
  • For a nut-free version, substitute cashews with melon seeds or sunflower seeds.
Read Also : thefoodieguyz.com

Variations

  • You can use tofu instead of paneer for a vegan version of this dish.
  • Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for extra nutrition and variety.
  • Experiment with different spices such as cardamom, cloves, or cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.

Health Benefits of Shahi Paneer

Shahi Paneer is a nutritious dish with several health benefits. Paneer is a great source of protein, calcium, and essential nutrients. The cashews and milk provide healthy fats and additional nutrients, while the spices add antioxidants and flavor without excessive calories.

Conclusion

This easy Shahi Paneer recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious, restaurant-style Indian dish in the comfort of their own home. The rich, creamy gravy combined with soft paneer cubes will leave your taste buds craving more. Follow the steps, tips, and variations to create a dish that suits your personal preferences.

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