What is Shahi Paneer Recipe?
Shahi Paneer Recipe is a popular and flavorful Indian dish that originates from the Mughlai cuisine. It is a vegetarian delicacy made with paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, cooked in a rich and creamy gravy. The term “Shahi” translates to “royal,” and true to its name, Shahi Paneer is considered a regal treat due to its luxurious taste and indulgent texture.
Tips and Tricks for Perfection
Achieving the Right Consistency
To achieve the perfect consistency of the Shahi Paneer gravy, ensure that the blended paste is smooth and free of lumps. Additionally, adjust the cream and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Balancing Spices and Flavors
Finding the right balance of spices is crucial in Shahi Paneer. Make sure the flavors are well-balanced, with neither the sweetness nor the spiciness overpowering the dish.
Shahi Paneer Recipe: A Royal Delight to Savor
- 250g Paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
- 2 medium-sized Onions, finely chopped
- 2 medium-sized Tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Cashews
- 1/2 cup Fresh Cream
- 2 tbsp Ghee (clarified butter) or Oil
- 1 tsp Ginger Paste
- 1 tsp Garlic Paste
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1/2 tsp Red Chili Powder
- 1/2 tsp Garam Masala
- 1/2 tsp Cumin Powder
- 1/2 tsp Coriander Powder
- 4-5 Green Cardamom Pods
- 4-5 Cloves
- 1-inch Cinnamon Stick
- A pinch of Saffron strands (optional)
- Chopped Nuts (cashews, almonds, or pistachios) for garnish
- Salt to taste
Preparing the Paneer
Start by cutting the paneer into cubes and soaking them in warm water to keep them soft. You can also shallow fry the paneer cubes to add a crispy texture to the dish.
Making the Shahi Gravy
In a pan, sauté chopped onions and tomatoes until they turn golden brown. Add cashews and cook them until soft. Let the mixture cool and then blend it into a smooth paste. In another pan, heat some oil or ghee and add the blended paste, along with a mix of aromatic spices. Stir and cook the gravy until it thickens.
Blending Flavors Together
Add the paneer cubes to the thickened gravy and let them simmer together, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors. Finish off with a drizzle of fresh cream and garnish with chopped nuts and saffron strands.
Serving and Presentation
Shahi Paneer is best enjoyed with Indian bread, such as naan or roti, or steamed basmati rice. The creamy texture of the dish pairs well with the softness of the bread or the fluffiness of the rice. To add a touch of elegance, serve the dish in ornate serving bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of saffron on top.