Shahi Paneer Recipe
Shahi Paneer is a rich and creamy North Indian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a thick, creamy gravy of yogurt, cream, nuts, and spices. Here's how you can make this royal dish at home:
Ingredients:
For the Paneer:
250 grams paneer, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons oil or ghee
For the Gravy:
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 medium tomatoes, pureed
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
1/4 cup cashew nuts, soaked in warm water for 15 minutes
1/2 cup plain yogurt (curd)
1/4 cup fresh cream
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons ghee or butter
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
Prepare the Paneer:
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee in a pan.
Add the paneer cubes and lightly fry them until they turn golden brown on all sides.
Remove and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Make the Cashew Paste:
Drain the soaked cashews and blend them into a smooth paste using a little water if needed. Set aside.
Prepare the Gravy:
In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or butter over medium heat.
Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and green chili (if using), and sauté for a few minutes until the raw smell disappears.
Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
Add Spices and Cashew Paste:
Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
Add the cashew paste and cook for a few minutes, stirring continuously.
Finish the Gravy:
Lower the heat and add the yogurt, stirring continuously to prevent it from curdling.
Add milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the fresh cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Add garam masala and cardamom powder. Mix well.
Combine Paneer with Gravy:
Gently add the fried paneer cubes to the gravy.
Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the paneer to soak up the flavors of the gravy.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.