Indian Curries

Shahi Paneer Recipe

Are you craving a delicious and creamy Indian dish? Look no further than the Shahi Paneer recipe!

Shahi Paneer is one of the most popular gravy recipes in North India. It is a traditional recipe that has been followed from generations since the time od Moguls. It is very rich in taste and flavorful because it is a gravy which combines cashews, almonds, yogurt and fresh cream. It goes very well with rotis and parathas.

This classic dish features succulent paneer cubes in a rich and flavorsome gravy, making it a favorite for many. With the perfect blend of spices and a touch of saffron, this dish is sure to impress your taste buds. Let's take a look at how to make this delectable Shahi Paneer at home.

What Is Shahi Paneer Recipe?

Shahi Paneer is a popular Indian dish that combines succulent paneer cubes with a rich and creamy sauce made from a blend of tomatoes, onions, ginger, and a variety of aromatic spices. This flavorful dish is known for its luxurious texture and the unique seasoning that sets it apart from other paneer dishes. The combination of tender paneer and a decadent, spiced gravy makes Shahi Paneer a beloved dish in Indian cuisine.

Why You'll Love Shahi Paneer Recipe?

Creamy Texture: The Shahi Paneer recipe results in a creamy and rich texture, thanks to the combination of fresh cream, yogurt, and ground nuts. It's a delightful dish that is sure to satisfy your cravings for something indulgent.
High Protein Content: Paneer, which is the star ingredient of this recipe, is a great source of protein, making it a nutritious option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The addition of almonds and cashews also adds a healthy dose of essential nutrients to the dish.
Good Source of Calcium: Paneer is also rich in calcium, which is essential for maintaining bone health. This makes the Shahi Paneer recipe not only delicious but also a good choice for those looking to increase their calcium intake.
Nutrient-Packed Spices: The combination of spices used in this recipe, such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander, not only add flavor but also provide various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Saffron for Aromatic Flavor: The use of saffron adds a unique and aromatic flavor to the dish, making it a standout in terms of taste and overall experience.
Versatile and Customizable: You can easily customize the Shahi Paneer recipe by adjusting the spice levels or adding other ingredients to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile and adaptable dish for any occasion.

Ingredients for Shahi Paneer Recipe

Paneer cubes or cottage cheese: Paneer is the star ingredient of this dish, adding a soft and creamy texture to the recipe. It absorbs the flavors of the spices and masala, making it a delicious addition to the dish.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes provide a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish, while also adding a rich red color to the gravy.
Onion: Onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall taste of the recipe.
Fresh ginger and garlic pods: These aromatic ingredients add a warm and spicy flavor to the dish, complementing the richness of the other ingredients.
Cashews and almonds: These nuts not only add a creamy texture to the gravy but also provide a subtle nutty flavor, adding depth and richness to the dish.
Yogurt and fresh cream: These dairy ingredients add a creamy and tangy flavor to the dish, balancing out the spices and adding a luxurious texture to the gravy.

How To Make Shahi Paneer Recipe?

If you want to make a delicious and flavorful Shahi Paneer, follow these simple steps to create this classic Indian dish.

First, start by thawing the paneer cubes naturally or soaking them in hot water until you are ready to use them. This step is important to ensure the paneer is ready to be cooked and absorbs the flavors of the dish.
Next, heat a pressure cooker or pan over medium heat and add onion, tomato, ginger, garlic, cashews, and almonds. Fry them for 2 minutes without adding any oil.
Then, add a cup of water and pressure cook for one whistle or until the ingredients have softened. Once done, remove the cooker from the heat and let it cool down naturally.
Afterward, drain and reserve the stock or water for further use. Grind the remaining ingredients into a smooth paste and set it aside for later use.
In another pan, heat oil and add cloves, cinnamon stick, black and green cardamoms. Fry until they begin to splutter, then reduce the heat and add red chili powder and turmeric powder. Stir-fry for a few seconds until the raw smell goes away.
Add the ground onion paste and sauté well. Then, add cumin powder and coriander powder, stir, and cover the pan with a lid. Cook for 2 minutes until the oil starts to leave the sides of the paste.
The next key step is to let the masala cool down before adding whisked yogurt.
Once combined, place the masala pan over low heat and cook for an additional minute.
Pour the reserved water and salt, mix well, and cook until the gravy becomes slightly thick.
Finally, whisk the fresh cream until smooth and add the paneer cubes and garam masala.
Simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until the paneer is cooked. Garnish with almond pieces and saffron for a beautiful finishing touch.

By following these steps, you'll be able to create a delicious Shahi Paneer that's bursting with flavor and is sure to be a hit with your friends and family. Enjoy your homemade Indian dish!

Serving Suggestions

Side Dish Pairing: Serve the delicious shahi paneer with some fragrant basmati rice or hot, fluffy naan to soak up all the rich, creamy gravy.
Fresh Salad: Pair the shahi paneer with a light, refreshing cucumber raita or a simple mixed green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.
Vegetable Side: Consider serving some lightly spiced, sautéed vegetables such as cumin-scented carrots or garlic-infused spinach alongside the shahi paneer for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Making Shahi Paneer

Furthermore, I would like to share some tips for making shahi paneer.

Firstly, in this recipe, I have not used butter, but you feel free to use butter or ghee for more richness.
Then, some people have not added tomatoes in this recipe since they have used yogurt, but tomatoes with the combination of cream make your dish delicious.
Vegans also make the same paneer gravy by using tofu and cashew yogurt. If you use cashew yogurt, then you don’t need to add cashews while making the paste.
Finally, try to add riped tomatoes to this recipe because it will add bright color to this dish. Adding red chili powder and saffron also give a nice color and flavor to this recipe.

Variations for Shahi Paneer Recipe

Vegetable Shahi Paneer: For a healthier twist, you can add mixed vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and peas to the recipe. This will not only enhance the nutritional value but also add a burst of color and flavor to the dish.
Vegan Shahi Paneer: To make a vegan version of this recipe, you can substitute the paneer with tofu or even boiled and cubed potatoes. Use plant-based yogurt and cream instead of dairy products to achieve the same creamy texture and richness.
Spicy Shahi Paneer: If you love spice, you can amp up the heat by adding more red chili powder or even chopped green chilies to the masala. This will give the dish a fiery kick that is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.
Nutty Shahi Paneer: Experiment with different nuts like pistachios, walnuts, or even pine nuts in place of cashews and almonds. This will add a unique nutty flavor and texture to the dish, taking it to a whole new level of indulgence.
Shahi Paneer with a Twist: Get creative and add a twist to the traditional recipe by incorporating ingredients like raisins, apricots, or even a splash of rose water for a fragrant and exotic touch.
Lighter Shahi Paneer: For a lighter version, you can use low-fat yogurt and skip the addition of fresh cream. This will result in a lighter yet still flavorful dish that is perfect for those watching their calorie intake.

How to Store Shahi Paneer Recipe

Store Paneer Properly: To maintain the freshness of paneer, store it in an airtight container filled with water. Change the water every day to keep the paneer fresh and soft.
Keep Spices in a Cool Place: Store the spices used in the recipe, such as cloves, cinnamon stick, and cardamom, in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavor and aroma.
Preserve Nuts and Cream: Keep the almonds, cashews, and fresh cream in airtight containers in the refrigerator to prevent them from turning rancid.
Use Fresh Tomatoes and Onions: Store fresh tomatoes and onions in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to keep them fresh for a longer time.
Yogurt and Saffron Storage: Store leftover yogurt in the refrigerator and keep saffron in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain their quality and taste.
Properly Store Fresh Cream: To maintain the freshness of fresh cream, store it in the refrigerator and use it before the expiration date for the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I substitute paneer with tofu in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely substitute paneer with tofu in this shahi paneer recipe. Both paneer and tofu have a similar texture and can be used interchangeably in most recipes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as tofu cooks faster than paneer.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this shahi paneer recipe vegan, you can substitute the paneer with extra firm tofu and replace the yogurt with dairy-free yogurt. You can also use coconut cream instead of fresh cream for a vegan-friendly version.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shahi paneer masala ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat the masala, add the paneer cubes, and simmer until the paneer is heated through.

How can I adjust the spice level to my preference?

If you prefer a spicier shahi paneer, you can increase the amount of red chili powder or add a finely chopped green chili. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of red chili powder and omit the green chili altogether.

What can I serve with shahi paneer?

Shahi paneer pairs well with naan, roti, or steamed rice. You can also serve it with a side of salad or raita for a complete meal.

How can I make the gravy thicker?

If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the shahi paneer and simmer it for a few more minutes until the desired consistency is reached. Alternatively, you can reduce the amount of water used in the recipe for a thicker gravy.

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