How to Make Rich and Creamy Shahi Paneer

Shahi Paneer is a popular Indian dish known for its rich and creamy texture.  It is a delightful combination of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and a velvety tomato and cashew-based gravy. Shahi Paneer is a rich and creamy Indian dish that captivates taste buds with its velvety texture and aromatic flavors. This article provides a step-by-step guide to creating the ultimate Rich and Creamy Shahi Paneer at home. From preparing the paneer to making the luscious Shahi gravy, each stage is carefully explained to ensure a delightful outcome. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is a perfect opportunity to indulge in the opulence of Indian cuisine and savor a dish fit for royalty.

Introduction to Rich and Creamy Shahi Paneer:

In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing a flavorful Shahi Paneer dish that will impress your family and friends. The dish originated from the Mughlai cuisine and has since become a favorite in Indian households. By following the instructions below, you can recreate this restaurant-style recipe in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

To make Rich and Creamy Shahi Paneer, you will need the following ingredients:

1. 250 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
2. 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
3. 1 large onion, finely chopped
4. 2 tomatoes, pureed
5. 10-12 cashew nuts, soaked in warm water
6. 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
7. 1/2 cup fresh cream
8. 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
9. 1 teaspoon red chili powder
10. 1 teaspoon garam masala
11. 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder
12. Salt to taste
13. Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Preparing the Paneer:

1. Take the paneer cubes and soak them in warm water for 15 minutes to make them soft.
2. Drain the water and pat dry the paneer cubes using a kitchen towel.
3. Heat a tablespoon of ghee in a non-stick pan.
4. Add the paneer cubes to the pan and cook them until they turn golden brown on all sides.
5. Remove the paneer cubes from the pan and set them aside.

Making the Shahi Paneer Gravy:

1. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of ghee.
2. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent.
3. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
4. Now, add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
5. Drain the soaked cashew nuts and grind them into a smooth paste.
6. Add the cashew paste to the pan and mix well with the onion and tomato mixture.
7. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and cardamom powder to the pan.
8. Season with salt according to your taste.
9. Stir everything together and cook for a few minutes until the gravy thickens.
10. Finally, add fresh cream to the gravy and mix well.

Cooking the Paneer and Assembling the Dish:

1. Gently add the cooked paneer cubes to the Shahi Paneer gravy.
2. Stir gently to coat the paneer cubes with the creamy sauce.
3. Cover the pan and let the paneer simmer in the gravy for a few minutes on low heat.
4. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

Tips for Serving Rich and Creamy Shahi Paneer:

1. Serve Shahi Paneer hot with naan, roti, or jeera rice.
2. You can garnish the dish with a drizzle of fresh cream and a sprinkle of crushed dry fruits for added richness.
3. Accompany the dish with a refreshing cucumber and mint raita to balance the flavors.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Shahi Paneer is a delightful Indian dish that you can easily prepare at home. The combination of creamy tomato and cashew-based gravy with tender paneer cubes makes it a favorite among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a rich and flavorful Shahi Paneer that will leave everyone asking for more.

FAQs:

1. Q: Can I use store-bought paneer for Shahi Paneer?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought paneer if you don’t have homemade paneer available.

2. Q: Can I make Shahi Paneer without cashew nuts?
A: Cashew nuts add richness to the gravy, but if you have allergies or prefer not to use them, you can substitute with blanched almonds.

3. Q: How long can I store Shahi Paneer?
A: Shahi Paneer can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

4. Q: Can I freeze Shahi Paneer?
A: It is not recommended to freeze Shahi Paneer as the texture of the paneer may change after thawing.

5. Q: Can I make Shahi Paneer spicy?
A: If you prefer a spicier version, you can increase the amount of red chili powder according to your taste.

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