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Shahi Paneer Recipe: A Royal Delight
Shahi Paneer is one of the most beloved dishes in Indian cuisine, renowned for its rich, creamy texture and aromatic flavors. The name “Shahi” means royal, and this dish truly lives up to its name. Perfect for special occasions or a sumptuous family meal, Shahi Paneer combines paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a luxurious gravy made from tomatoes, cream, and a medley of spices. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
For the Paneer
- 250 grams paneer (cubed)
- 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
For the Gravy
- 2 medium onions (finely chopped)
- 2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/4 cup cashew nuts
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnishing)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Make the Cashew Paste
Start by soaking the cashew nuts in warm water for about 15-20 minutes. This softens them, making it easier to blend into a smooth paste. After soaking, drain the water and blend the cashews with a little water until you have a creamy consistency.
Step 2: Cook the Gravy
In a pan, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for about a minute until fragrant.
Next, add the tomato puree to the pan. Cook this mixture until the oil starts to separate, which indicates that the tomatoes are well cooked.
Step 3: Add Spices
Now it’s time to introduce the spices! Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to the tomato mixture. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes. Then, stir in the cashew paste and allow it to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of water if it becomes too thick.
Step 4: Incorporate Paneer and Cream
Once the gravy is well combined and cooked, gently add the cubed paneer. Mix them in carefully to avoid breaking the paneer. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle garam masala over the top. Allow the dish to simmer for about 5 minutes on low heat.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish your Shahi Paneer with fresh coriander leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Tips for the Perfect Shahi Paneer
- Paneer Quality: Use fresh, soft paneer for the best texture. You can even make your own paneer at home for a more authentic experience.
- Spice Levels: Adjust the red chili powder according to your spice tolerance. You can add more or reduce it based on your preference.
- Creaminess: For an even richer flavor, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or add a dollop of butter at the end.
Conclusion
Shahi Paneer is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that truly embodies the essence of Indian cuisine. Whether it’s a festive occasion or just a cozy family dinner, this royal dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy the creamy, rich goodness of Shahi Paneer and savor every bite!
FAQs
1. Can I use tofu instead of paneer?
Yes! Tofu can be a great substitute for paneer if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
2. How can I make Shahi Paneer vegan?
To make it vegan, use tofu and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream.
3. What can I serve with Shahi Paneer?
Shahi Paneer pairs well with naan, roti, paratha, or steamed basmati rice.
4. Can I store leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
5. Is Shahi Paneer spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted according to your preference. It typically has a mild to medium spice level due to the use of creamy ingredients.
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