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Paneer Tikka Masala

Paneer Tikka Masala

Paneer Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish made with marinated and grilled paneer (cottage cheese) cubes simmered in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. The paneer is flavored with spices like cumin and garam masala, and the sauce includes sautéed onions and cream. Served hot with naan or rice, it’s a favorite vegetarian dish known for its delicious taste and hearty texture.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course paneer
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4
Calories 1800 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Paneer Tikka:

  • 200 gram Paneer, cubed
  • ½ Cup Thick yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon Red chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon Turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon Garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Oil (for grilling)

For the Masala (Gravy):

  • 2 tablespoon Oil
  • 1 Large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 Medium tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon Ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon Red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon Garam masala
  • ½ Cup Fresh cream
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions
 

Marinate the Paneer

  • Firstly, mix yogurt, spices (like cumin, coriander, and garam masala), and lime juice to make the marinade.
  • Then, coat the paneer cubes in the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes so it soaks up all the flavors.

Grill/Bake the Paneer

  • Next, grill or bake the marinated paneer until it has crispy, charred edges. This step adds that smoky flavor that makes it irresistible!
  • Alternatively, if you don’t have a grill, you can also add a smoky flavor by using the dumdum technique: Place a hot charcoal piece in a small bowl, pour ghee over it, and cover the dish to infuse the aroma.

Prepare the Sauce

  • Meanwhile, sauté onions, ginger, and garlic until golden brown.
  • Then, add the spices and sauté for a few more minutes. After that, add pureed tomatoes and cook them until the sauce thickens into a smooth, rich gravy.

Add the Grilled Paneer

  • Now, add the grilled paneer cubes to the thick gravy. Simmer everything together so the paneer absorbs the sauce’s flavors.
  • As a result, the paneer will be fully coated in the delicious sauce, making it extra flavorful!

Finish with Cream and Kasuri Methi

  • Finally, stir in the cream and kasuri methi for that velvety finish and aromatic touch.
  • To summarize, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with naan or rice. You’re all set for a delicious meal!

Notes

Cooking Techniques

1. Grilling

    • Firstly, grilling adds a smoky flavor to the tikka. The high heat creates crispy, charred bits that make the taste deeper and richer. 
    • Consequently, grilling keeps the paneer tender and juicy, making every bite extra delicious. 

2. Baking

    • On the other hand, baking is healthier because it uses less oil. 
    • Although it doesn't give the smoky flavor, it still makes the tikka soft and delicious. In short, it's a great option if you want to keep it light but tasty! ✨

3. Pan-Frying

    • Meanwhile, pan-frying gives the tikka a crispy outside while keeping the inside soft and juicy. 
    • By all means, it uses a little oil, which adds richness and flavor, making the tikka super tasty! 

Variations

1. Vegan Paneer Tikka Masala: For instance, swap the paneer with tofu and use cashew cream or coconut milk instead of dairy. By all means, this version makes the dish vegan-friendly while keeping it just as delicious! 
2. Smoky Tandoori Paneer: To clarify, if you want extra smokiness, marinate the paneer in tandoori masala and grill it to get those charred smoky flavors typical of tandoori dishes. Consequently, you'll get a rich, smoky punch that makes every bite exciting! 
3. Paneer Tikka Masala with Vegetables: Further more, add bell peppers, onions, or peas to the sauce. Not only does this make the dish more colorful, but it also adds a hearty touch! 
4. Paneer Tikka Masala with Nuts: For example, toss in a handful of cashews or almonds into the sauce. In this case, you'll get a creamy texture and rich flavor that makes it extra indulgent. 

Tips for Perfect Paneer Tikka Masala

1. Use Firm Paneer: For the best results, use firm paneer to keep it from crumbling in the curry. This helps it hold its shape and soak up all those yummy flavors! 
2. Marinate Long Enough: Marinate the paneer for at least 30 minutes (or longer if you can!). This allows the spices to fully soak in and gives the paneer the perfect texture and flavor. 
3. Cook the Sauce Properly: Don’t rush the sauce! Let the tomatoes and spices simmer to bring out deep, rich flavors. The longer it cooks, the better the taste! 
4. Adjust Spice Levels: Love heat? Add more chili powder! Prefer a milder, creamier taste? Add a bit more cream to make it smooth and balanced.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Paneer Tikka Masala
Amount per Serving
Calories
1800
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
130
g
200
%
Saturated Fat
 
50
g
313
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
15
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
30
g
Cholesterol
 
300
mg
100
%
Sodium
 
1000
mg
43
%
Potassium
 
1200
mg
34
%
Carbohydrates
 
70
g
23
%
Fiber
 
8
g
33
%
Sugar
 
15
g
17
%
Protein
 
90
g
180
%
Vitamin A
 
2000
IU
40
%
Vitamin B1
 
0.4
mg
27
%
Vitamin B2
 
0.6
mg
35
%
Vitamin B3
 
5
mg
25
%
Vitamin B5
 
2
mg
20
%
Vitamin B6
 
0.5
mg
25
%
Vitamin B12
 
2
µg
33
%
Vitamin C
 
40
mg
48
%
Vitamin E
 
2
mg
13
%
Vitamin K
 
20
µg
19
%
Calcium
 
800
mg
80
%
Iron
 
6
mg
33
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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