Delicious Shahi Paneer Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Shahi paneer is a popular and rich Indian dish known for its creamy and flavorful tomato-based gravy. It is a staple in North Indian cuisine and is often served alongside bread or rice. Here's a detailed recipe to help you prepare delicious Shahi paneer from home.

Ingredients

For Paneer Marinade:

250 grams paneer (cottage cheese) - cubed 1/4 cup thick yogurt 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste 1 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder Salt to taste

For Gravy:

2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter) 1 cup onions - finely chopped 1 cup tomatoes - pureed 1/4 cup cashew nuts - soaked in warm water 1/4 cup fresh cream 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 bay leaf 2-3 green cardamom pods 1 cinnamon stick 2 cloves 1 teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) - crushed Salt to taste Fresh coriander leaves - for garnish

Instructions

Marinate Paneer:

In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to form a smooth paste. Add paneer cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare Cashew Paste:

Blend soaked cashew nuts with a little water to form a smooth paste.

Cook Marinated Paneer:

Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add marinated paneer cubes and cook until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Prepare Gravy:

In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, green cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.

Add Spices:

Add garam masala, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes.

Add Cashew Paste:

Add the cashew paste to the masala. Stir well and cook for a few more minutes until the masala is well-cooked.

Add Fresh Cream:

Pour in fresh cream and mix well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Add Paneer:

Gently add the cooked paneer cubes to the gravy. Simmer for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.

Finish with Kasuri Methi:

Crush kasuri methi between your palms and add it to the gravy. Stir well.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serve:

Serve Shahi paneer hot with naan, roti, or rice. Adjust the spice levels and creaminess according to your taste preferences.