Shahi Paneer Recipe: A Royal Delight for Your Taste Buds

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of Shahi Paneer, a popular North Indian dish that combines the goodness of cottage cheese with a luxurious blend of spices and creamy gravy. This article will guide you through a step-by-step recipe for preparing Shahi Paneer, ensuring that you achieve a delectable dish that will leave your family and guests craving for more.

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Preparing the Paneer
3. Making the Shahi Paneer Masala
4. Cooking the Shahi Paneer
5. Serving Suggestions
6. Health Benefits of Shahi Paneer
7. Tips and Tricks
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Ingredients

To prepare Shahi Paneer, you will need the following ingredients:

• 250 grams paneer (cottage cheese)
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 onions, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup cashew paste
• 1/2 cup fresh cream
• A pinch of saffron strands
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Preparing the Paneer

• Cut the paneer into cubes or desired shapes.
• Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee in a pan over medium heat.
• Add the paneer cubes to the pan and fry until they turn golden brown.
• Remove the paneer cubes from the pan and set them aside.
• Making the Shahi Paneer Masala
• In the same pan, add another tablespoon of ghee.
• Add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter.
• Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
• Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
• Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
• Now, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well.
• Add the cashew paste and cook for a few minutes until the masala thickens.
• Finally, add fresh cream and saffron strands, stirring well to combine.
• Allow the masala to simmer for a few minutes, adjusting the consistency with water if needed.
• Add salt to taste and mix thoroughly.

Cooking the Shahi Paneer

• Gently place the fried paneer cubes into the simmering masala.
• Cover the pan and let it cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Stir occasionally to ensure the paneer is evenly coated with the creamy masala.

Shahi Paneer Recipe Serving Suggestions

Shahi Paneer is best enjoyed with hot naan bread or steamed basmati rice. Garnish it with fresh coriander leaves to add a burst of freshness. You can also serve it with a side of cucumber and onion salad to complement the richness of the dish.

Health Benefits of Shahi Paneer

• Protein-Rich: Paneer is an excellent source of protein, making Shahi Paneer a nutritious option for vegetarians.
• Calcium Boost: Paneer is also rich in calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The spices used in Shahi Paneer, such as turmeric, provide various vitamins and minerals with antioxidant properties.

Shahi Paneer Recipe Tips and Tricks

• To make the paneer softer, soak it in warm water for 15 minutes before adding it to the masala.
• Adjust the spiciness according to your preference by adding more or less red chili powder.
• For a richer flavor, you can soak the saffron strands in warm milk before adding them to the masala.

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Shahi Paneer Recipe Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought paneer instead of making it at home?

Yes, you can use store-bought paneer as a time-saving alternative.

Can I replace cashew paste with any other ingredient?

You can substitute cashew paste with blanched almonds or melon seeds paste.

Is Shahi Paneer a spicy dish?

The spice level can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. It can be mild or spicy, depending on the amount of red chili powder used.

Can I freeze leftover Shahi Paneer?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use low-fat cream instead of fresh cream?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream, but keep in mind that it may alter the richness and creaminess of the dish.

Indulge in the royal flavors of Shahi Paneer and treat yourself to a truly decadent culinary experience. This recipe combines the richness of paneer with a blend of aromatic spices, creating a dish that is sure to impress your taste buds. Whether it's a festive occasion or a regular family meal, Shahi Paneer is a delightful addition to any menu.