![Shahi paneer](https://cookwithom.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/image-20-1024x576.png)
Introduction:
Shahi Paneer is a rich and creamy Indian dish that hails from the Mughlai cuisine. This regal delicacy is a favorite among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. The word “Shahi” translates to “royal,” and true to its name, this dish exudes an opulent and flavorful character(Let’s move forward…).
If you’re looking to bring the essence of Indian royalty into your home, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of cooking Shahi Paneer.
About the Dish:
Shahi Paneer is a traditional North Indian dish known for its silky texture, aromatic spices, and the creamy goodness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese). The dish is typically prepared using a rich blend of tomatoes, onions, cashews, and a medley of spices, which gives it a distinctive royal flavor.
The luscious gravy beautifully coats the tender paneer cubes, making it a treat for your taste buds(Let’s move forward…).
Ingredients:
To prepare Shahi Paneer, you will need the following ingredients:
- 200 grams paneer (cottage cheese), cubed
- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, pureed
- 1/4 cup cashews, soaked in warm water
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt to taste
- Chopped fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cashew Paste
- Soak the cashews in warm water for about 15 minutes.
- Drain the water and grind the cashews into a smooth paste. Set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Paneer
- Heat a tablespoon of ghee in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the paneer cubes and sauté until they turn light golden brown.
- Remove the paneer from the pan and set it aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Gravy
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of ghee and heat it.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- Pour in the tomato puree and cook for 2-3 minutes until the oil separates.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well.
- Add the cashew paste and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Add milk, fresh cream, and salt. Mix well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Paneer
- Gently add the sautéed paneer cubes to the simmering gravy.
- Stir carefully to coat the paneer evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Allow the Shahi Paneer to simmer for another 5 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves over the Shahi Paneer.
- Transfer the dish to a serving bowl.
- Serve the Shahi Paneer hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Recipe Card:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 200 grams paneer (cottage cheese), cubed
- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, pureed
- 1/4 cup cashews, soaked in warm water
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt to taste
- Chopped fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
Instructions:
- Soak the cashews in warm water for about 15 minutes. Drain the water and grind the cashews into a smooth paste. Set it aside.
- Heat a tablespoon of ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the paneer cubes and sauté until they turn light golden brown. Remove the paneer from the pan and set it aside.
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of ghee and heat it. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw aroma disappears. Pour in the tomato puree and cook for 2-3 minutes until the oil separates.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well. Add the cashew paste and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Add milk, fresh cream, and salt. Mix well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Gently add the sautéed paneer cubes to the simmering gravy. Stir carefully to coat the paneer evenly with the creamy sauce. Allow the Shahi Paneer to simmer for another 5 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander leaves over the Shahi Paneer. Transfer the dish to a serving bowl.
- Serve the Shahi Paneer hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Conclusion:
Cooking Shahi Paneer at home allows you to experience the regal flavors of Indian cuisine in the comfort of your own kitchen. With its creamy texture and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow the step-by-step instructions provided in this blog, and soon you’ll be savoring the rich and flavorful Shahi Paneer.
Enjoy this royal delicacy and relish the taste of Indian tradition(Let’s move forward…).
FAQs:
Q: Can I substitute paneer with tofu?
A: Yes, you can use tofu as a substitute for paneer. However, keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly.
Q: Can I make Shahi Paneer in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the Shahi Paneer in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving.
Q: Can I make Shahi Paneer without cashews?
A: Cashews add richness to the dish, but if you have a nut allergy or prefer a nut-free version, you can omit them or use a suitable alternative like almonds or melon seeds.