Shahi Paneer
Shahi Paneer is a rich and creamy North Indian dish made with paneer cooked in a luxurious gravy of cream, yogurt, and cashews.
Equipment
- Knife
- Chopping board
- Blender or food processor (for pureeing tomatoes and making cashew paste)
- Bowl (for soaking cashews)
- Medium-sized pan or skillet
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Small bowl (for whisking yogurt)
- Serving bowl
Ingredients
For the Paneer:
- 250 grams paneer cut into cubes
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons ghee clarified butter or oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1- inch cinnamon stick
- 2-3 green cardamom pods
- 4-5 cloves
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
- 2 large tomatoes pureed
- 10-12 cashews soaked in warm water and ground to a paste
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- 1/4 cup yogurt whisked
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional
- Fresh coriander leaves chopped (for garnish)
- Saffron strands soaked in 2 tablespoons of warm milk optional
Instructions
Prepare the Paneer:
- Cut paneer into cubes and set aside.
Prepare the Gravy:
- Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Add finely chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Add the cashew paste and cook for a few minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Reduce the heat and add whisked yogurt, stirring continuously to avoid curdling.
- Add fresh cream and mix well.
- Add the paneer cubes and gently mix to coat them with the gravy.
- Sprinkle garam masala and sugar (if using). Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- If using, add saffron milk and mix gently.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice. Enjoy your Shahi Paneer!
Notes
Shahi Paneer is a famous and delectable dish from Indian cuisine, known for its richness and royal taste. The word ‘Shahi’ translates to ‘royal,’ reflecting the luxurious flavor and texture of this dish.
This delicacy features soft paneer (cottage cheese) cubes cooked in a creamy, cashew and cream-based gravy. The gravy is a perfect blend of aromatic spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaf. Pureed tomatoes and finely chopped onions add a deep and rich texture to the dish.
Shahi Paneer is typically served during special occasions and festivals. Its flavor is a delightful combination of sweet and spicy, setting it apart from other paneer dishes. The addition of garam masala, fresh cream, and cashew paste gives it a royal essence, making it a centerpiece for any dining table.
This dish pairs wonderfully with naan, tandoori roti, or steamed rice. Its creamy and rich texture makes it an ideal part of any special meal.
Popular among Indian food lovers, Shahi Paneer is a favorite in both restaurants and homes due to its opulence and exquisite taste.
