A step-by-step guide to making delicious Shahi Paneer, a rich and creamy Indian dish:
Shahi Paneer Recipe
Ingredients you'll need:
- Paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed
- Onions, chopped
- Tomatoes, chopped
- Cashew nuts, soaked
- Ghee or cooking oil
- Ginger-garlic paste
- Green chili, chopped (optional)
- Spices: cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom pods
- Garam masala powder
- Turmeric powder
- Red chili powder
- Coriander powder
- Salt, to taste
- Sugar, a pinch (optional)
- Water
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnishing)
Step 1: Prepare the Onion-Tomato Base
1. Heat a pan with ghee or oil over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds, cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Sauté until they release their aroma.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
Step 2: Prepare the Cashew Paste
1. In a separate bowl, blend soaked cashew nuts into a smooth paste using a little water.
Step 3: Make the Masala
1. Once the onion-tomato mixture is well-cooked, cool it slightly, and then blend it into a smooth paste.
Step 4: Cook the Masala
1. Return the blended paste to the pan. Cook it for a few minutes until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
2. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another couple of minutes.
Step 5: Add Cashew Paste
1. Pour in the cashew paste and mix it into the masala.
Step 6: Add Paneer
1. Gently add the cubed paneer to the masala and coat it with the sauce. Be careful not to break the paneer cubes.
Step 7: Add Cream and Spices
1. Pour in fresh cream and mix well.
2. Add a pinch of garam masala powder and a pinch of sugar (if using) for a touch of sweetness. Adjust the spices and salt to taste.
Step 8: Simmer and Garnish
1. Let the Shahi Paneer simmer on low heat for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the paneer to absorb the sauce.
2. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Step 9: Serve
1. Shahi Paneer is now ready to be served. It pairs well with naan, roti, or rice.
Shahi Paneer is known for its luxurious creamy texture and delightful taste. Remember that cooking times and ingredient quantities can vary based on personal preferences and the size of your servings. Enjoy your flavorful homemade Shahi Paneer!