Shahi Paneer Recipe: Make Restaurant-Style Creamy Paneer at Home

 

Introduction

Shahi Paneer is a rich and creamy North Indian dish that is a favorite in Indian households and restaurants. Made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a luscious, mildly spiced gravy of tomatoes, cream, and aromatic spices, this dish is perfect for special occasions or weekend indulgence. If you have ever wanted to make restaurant-style Shahi Paneer at home, this step-by-step recipe will guide you to achieve that perfect taste and texture.

Why Is Shahi Paneer Special?

Shahi Paneer has a royal history, originating from Mughlai cuisine. The word "Shahi" means "royal," and true to its name, the dish is rich with flavors of nuts, aromatic spices, and a velvety smooth gravy. Unlike spicy curries, this dish leans more towards a creamy, mildly sweet taste, making it ideal for those who prefer a less spicy yet flavorful curry.

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Ingredients You Need

Shahi Paneer 

For the Paneer

• 250g paneer (cut into cubes)

• 1 tbsp butter or ghee (for shallow frying, optional)

For the Gravy

• 2 medium onions (roughly chopped)

• 3 medium tomatoes (pureed)

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 10-12 cashew nuts (soaked in warm water for 10 minutes)

• 2 tbsp fresh cream

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 cup curd (yogurt)

• 1 tbsp butter or ghee

• 1 tbsp oil

• 1 tsp sugar

• Salt to taste

Spices

• 1 bay leaf

• 1-inch cinnamon stick

• 2 green cardamoms

• 2 cloves

• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds

• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder (for color, adjust as per taste)

• 1/2 tsp garam masala

• 1/2 tsp coriander powder

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg powder (optional)

• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

For Garnishing

• 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

• 5-6 almond slivers

• 1 tbsp fresh cream

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Step-by-Step Recipe to Make Shahi Paneer

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the onions and puree the tomatoes.

2. Soak cashews in warm water for 10 minutes and grind them into a smooth paste.

3. Cut the paneer into cubes. Optionally, lightly fry them in ghee or butter for added flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Base Masala

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter in a pan.

2. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamoms. Sauté until fragrant.

3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

4. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.

5. Pour in the tomato puree and cook for 5-7 minutes until oil separates.

6. Add turmeric powder, Kashmiri chili powder, coriander powder, and nutmeg powder. Stir well.

Step 3: Make the Rich Gravy

1. Add the cashew paste and cook for 2 minutes while stirring continuously.

2. Lower the flame and add curd, stirring to prevent curdling.

3. Pour in the milk and mix well.

4. Add sugar and salt to taste.

5. Simmer for 5 minutes until the gravy thickens.

Step 4: Add Paneer and Finish the Dish

1. Add paneer cubes and gently mix them into the gravy.

2. Sprinkle kasuri methi and garam masala for the final touch.

3. Pour in fresh cream and mix gently.

4. Cook for 2 minutes on low heat and turn off the flame.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the Shahi Paneer to a serving bowl.

2. Garnish with chopped coriander, almond slivers, and a drizzle of fresh cream.

3. Serve hot with naan, roti, or jeera rice.

Pro Tips for the Best Shahi Paneer

• Use fresh homemade paneer for the best texture.

• Frying the paneer lightly enhances the flavor but is optional.

• Blending the gravy for an extra smooth texture can make the dish restaurant-style.

• Adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your preference by tweaking sugar and chili powder.

• Simmer on low heat to allow flavors to develop properly.

Variations of Shahi Paneer

1. No Onion-Garlic Version

For a satvik or Jain version, skip onions and garlic. Use more cashews and yogurt for a rich texture.

2. Vegan Shahi Paneer

Replace paneer with tofu, use coconut cream instead of dairy cream, and almond milk instead of regular milk.

3. Spicy Shahi Paneer

Increase the amount of garam masala and add green chilies for an extra kick.

Nutritional Benefits of Shahi Paneer

• High in Protein: Paneer provides a good source of protein, making this dish nutritious.

• Rich in Calcium: Helps in bone health.

• Healthy Fats: Ghee, nuts, and cream add good fats beneficial for energy.

• Cashews and Almonds: Provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Conclusion

Shahi Paneer is a delightful, rich, and creamy dish that never fails to impress. Whether you are cooking for a family gathering or simply indulging in a royal treat, this recipe will help you achieve a restaurant-style dish at home. Follow the steps carefully, adjust the ingredients as per your taste, and enjoy a luxurious homemade meal.

Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the comments below!