Shahi Paneer Masala

Shahi Paneer Masala recipe is a rich and creamy dish inspired by royal Mughlai cuisine. Not only does it feature soft paneer cubes, but it also soaks them in a flavorful gravy made from cream, nuts, and spices, resulting in a deliciously aromatic dish. As a result, it’s a top choice for paneer lovers. What's more, it's easy to make at home, bringing those royal flavors straight to your kitchen!

Jump to:

• About Shahi Paneer Masala
• What is Shahi Paneer Masala?
• The Shahi Flavor Profile: Why It's Irresistible
• What You'll Need to Make This Shahi Paneer Masala Recipe?
• Key Ingredients:
• How to Make Shahi Paneer Masala?
• Variations of Shahi Paneer Masala
• Serving Suggestions
• Tips for Perfect Shahi Paneer Masala
• ❔FAQs

About Shahi Paneer Masala

Shahi Paneer Masala recipe has its roots in Mughlai cuisine, a tradition known for its royal indulgence. Specifically, the word "Shahi" means royal, which reflects the use of rich ingredients like saffron, cashews, and cream.

Originally, royal kitchens used these luxurious ingredients to create dishes fit for kings and queens.

Interestingly, paneer, which was once a simple dairy product, was transformed into a luxurious substitute for meat during vegetarian royal feasts. As a result, this dish became a symbol of royal grandeur and elegance.

What is Shahi Paneer Masala?

Shahi Paneer Masala recipe is a royal, mouthwatering vegetarian curry that combines paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a creamy tomato-based gravy.

In fact, the word "Shahi" means royal, and this dish truly lives up to its name! Notably, it's often served at festive occasions or royal feasts, which makes it the star of any gathering.

Moreover, the richness of the dish, with its aromatic blend of spices, cream, and nuts, adds an indulgent touch to any meal.

Consequently, it’s become a beloved dish at celebratory events, where its vibrant flavor and creamy texture are sure to impress all who try it.

Why It's Special

Not only is Shahi Paneer Masala recipe special because of its creamy texture, but it also strikes the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The rich gravy, filled with spices and cream, gives it a luxurious taste that’s hard to beat.

A Tasty Twist on Paneer

Unlike regular paneer curries, this dish uses special ingredients like saffron and cashews, making it extra luxurious.It's silky smooth, with every bite leaving you craving more! The gravy coats the paneer just right, making it both satisfying and indulgent.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just treating yourself, Shahi Paneer Masala recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. It's truly the go-to dish for anyone who loves the richness of Mughlai cuisine.

The Shahi Flavor Profile: Why It's Irresistible

• Rich and creamy sauce: Made with cashew paste, cream, and yogurt for a velvety texture.
• Complex spice blend: Includes cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and mace for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Sweet & savory balance: The sweetness from saffron or sugar combines seamlessly with the savory notes of onion, ginger, and garlic, creating a well-balanced flavor profile.
• Paneer texture: Firm yet soft, absorbing the rich sauce while staying chewy and satisfying.
• Overall irresistible: A perfect combination of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors!

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What You'll Need to Make This Shahi Paneer Masala Recipe?

Key Ingredients:

Ingredients Breakdown:

• Paneer (Cottage Cheese): Paneer, being the main ingredient in this royal dish, is rich and creamy. Moreover, it absorbs all the flavorful spices, making it the star of the dish.
• Tomatoes: Tomatoes add tanginess and form a smooth, velvety base, blending effortlessly with spices to enhance depth. Additionally, freshly puréed tomatoes make the gravy luscious.
• Onions: Sautéed until golden, onions provide a sweet foundation. Slow-cooking them is key for building flavor.
• Cashews & Almonds: Ground cashews and almonds add richness, thereby transforming the curry into a royal dish. Additionally, their silky texture coats the paneer, enhancing the overall experience.
• Cream: Heavy cream balances the spices and transforms the curry into something luxurious, fit for royalty.
• Ginger & Garlic: Freshly ground ginger and garlic give warmth and aromatic depth, balancing the richness of the dish.
• Spices: Cumin, garam masala, and turmeric provide aromatic complexity and unforgettable fragrance.
• Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: Adds a beautiful red hue and mild heat, making the dish visually stunning.
• Fresh Coriander: A burst of freshness and color, coriander brightens up the rich curry.

How to Make Shahi Paneer Masala?

Step by Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cashew-Almond Paste

• Soak cashews and almonds for a few hours, then blend them into a smooth paste.
• This paste is the secret behind the curry's rich, creamy texture. It makes the dish feel luxurious, just like royalty!

2. Sauté the Spices

• First, in hot oil or ghee, sauté whole spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves. This step releases their aromas, infusing the oil with flavor.
• This step releases all those amazing aromas and fills your kitchen with delicious smells! It’s like the beginning of a magical journey.

3. Onion and Tomato Base

• Sauté finely chopped onions until golden brown, then add ginger-garlic paste.
• Add pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the masala. This creates the perfect base for your curry—thick and flavorful. All in all, it’s the heart of the dish!

4. Add the Cashew-Almond Paste and Yogurt

• Stir in the smooth cashew-almond paste, then add yogurt.
• The paste gives the curry its richness, while the yogurt brings in a creamy tanginess. If the texture is too thick, add water or stock to adjust.

5. Add Spices & Simmer

• Sprinkle in ground spices like turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander powder.
• Let it simmer so the spices blend together, creating an aromatic, perfectly balanced sauce. As the sauce simmers, it transforms into a magic elixir of flavors.

6. Add Paneer and Cook

• Gently add paneer cubes and let them soak in the rich gravy.
• Simmer for a few minutes so the paneer absorbs all the spices and flavors. The result? Soft, creamy paneer that’s ready to melt in your mouth.

7. Finish with Cream and Garnishes

• Then, stir in a bit of cream to make the dish extra rich and smooth, giving it a luxurious texture.
• Finally, garnish with saffron strands and fresh coriander leaves. This final touch adds a royal flair, making the dish as visually stunning as it is delicious!

Variations of Shahi Paneer Masala

Vegan Shahi Paneer

• For a plant-based twist, replace paneer with tofu or cashew paneer. Additionally, swap dairy cream with coconut cream for that creamy richness!
• Although this may be true that it’s a different take, it still captures the royal flavors, making it a perfect option for vegan lovers!

Shahi Malai Paneer

• If you're craving an even creamier version, try replacing regular cream with malai (clotted cream).
• Consequently, this adds a luxurious layer of richness, making the dish extra indulgent!

Shahi Paneer with Mixed Vegetables

• Another key point is to add carrots, peas, or beans for a heartier, more colorful dish.
• Not only will this make the dish more nutritious, but it also retains the royal essence of the original Shahi Paneer!

Add Dried Fruits

• For an extra burst of sweetness, incorporate raisins or dried apricots.
• This combination brings a unique balance to the spices, adding a subtle sweetness that enhances the richness of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

With Naan or Paratha: Additionally, pair with butter naan, garlic naan, or laccha paratha. These soft, flaky breads are ideal for dipping into the rich gravy.

With Rice: Serve with jeera rice, basmati rice, or pulao for a complete, satisfying meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful curry for the perfect balance.

With Raita or Salad: Balance the richness with mint raita or a refreshing onion-tomato-cucumber salad. Alternatively, try a crunchy cabbage slaw for a cool contrast.

As Part of a Festive Meal: Ideal for special occasions like Diwali, Eid, or weddings. This royal dish adds extra celebration to any feast!

Tips for Perfect Shahi Paneer Masala

• Use Fresh Paneer: First and foremost, always use fresh paneer for the best texture and flavor. Homemade paneer, in particular, will elevate the dish to another level of creaminess and richness.
• Cook the Gravy Well: In addition, ensure you sauté the tomatoes and onions thoroughly. By doing so, you eliminate any raw taste and create a rich, flavorful base for the curry.
• Balance the Spices: It’s important to note that spices should be adjusted to personal taste. For example, if you like more heat, add extra chili; if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the spice levels accordingly.
• Simmer for Depth: Finally, don’t rush the cooking process. Allow the gravy to simmer for at least 15-20 minutes, giving the flavors time to develop fully and meld together. This way, the curry will be truly rich and aromatic.

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❔FAQs