Shahi Paneer Recipe

Ingredients:

For Shahi Paneer:

• 200 grams paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped or pureed
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 cup cashew nuts, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes
• 1/4 cup fresh cream
• 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
• Salt, to taste
• Water, as needed

For Garnishing:

• Chopped coriander leaves
• Sliced almonds or cashew nuts

Instructions:

Making Shahi Paneer:

1. Heat ghee or vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds to the hot oil and let them splutter.
3. Add finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste to the pan and sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
5. Add chopped tomatoes or tomato puree to the pan. Stir well to combine with the onions and spices.
6. Cook the tomato mixture until it reduces and releases oil from the sides of the pan.
7. Meanwhile, drain the soaked cashew nuts and transfer them to a blender. Blend into a smooth paste using a little water.
8. Add the cashew nut paste to the pan and mix well with the tomato mixture.
9. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt to the pan. Mix well and cook for a few more minutes.
10. Pour in fresh cream and mix well to combine. Adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding water as needed.
11. Let the gravy simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
12. Add the paneer cubes to the gravy and gently mix them in.
13. Simmer the Shahi Paneer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors of the gravy.

Serving:

1. Transfer the Shahi Paneer to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and sliced almonds or cashew nuts.
3. Serve hot Shahi Paneer with naan, roti, or rice for a delicious North Indian meal.

Enjoy the creamy and indulgent Shahi Paneer, a classic favorite in North Indian cuisine!