Ingredients for Shahi Paneer Recipe:
To create this royal delicacy, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Paneer (cottage cheese)
- Cashews
- Cream
- Ghee /Butter (clarified butter)
- Onions
- Tomatoes
- Cumins
- Ginger-garlic (roughly cut)
- Green cardamom
- Cloves
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Saffron strands
- Salt and sugar to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Sauteing Onions and Tomatoes for Shahi Paneer
- Saute finely chopped onions fry it a little bit ,add tomatoes and cook until they soften.
- Add ginger-garlic roughly cut into it and saute it and add some salt.
- Add cashews with the masala’s (Cashew paste gives smoothy texture to the recipe)
- Spices and Aromatics
- Add cumins,green cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, and grated nutmeg for a fragrant base.
- Creating the Base Gravy
- Blend the sauted mixture into a fine paste, create silky smooth texture for Shahi Paneer.
- Cooking Paneer Cubes( sauteing paneer is optional)
- Saute paneer cubes in ghee/ butter until golden brown.
- Combining Gravy and Paneer
- Heat a cooking pan ,add some butter then add a little cumins and whole spices in low flame.
- Add 1/4 tablespoon of turmeric and chili powder into the masala.
- Add the gravy with spices ,cover it and stir it with low flame for 5/8 minutes
- Mix the prepared gravy with sauted paneer, then let the shahi paneer flavors to meld.
- Infusing Saffron
- Infuse saffron strands in warm milk and add to the Shahi Paneer for a royal touch.
- Creamy Goodness
- Add cream for creamy texture.
- Seasoning to Perfection
- Adjust salt and sugar to taste(as per your preference), enhancing the flavor of Shahi Paneer.
- Garnishing and Serving
- Add dry Fenugreek leaf by rubing with palm.
- Garnish with chopped coriander and serve hot with naan or rice.
Tips for Perfect Shahi Paneer
Achieving perfection in Shahi Paneer requires attention to detail. Here are some tips:
- Use fresh paneer for the best texture and taste.
- Adjust the cream and cashew paste quantities for required richness.
- Allow the dish to simmer, letting the flavors meld for a delicate taste.
Variations of Shahi Paneer Recipe
While the classic recipe is timeless, consider these variations:
- Kaju Shahi Paneer Recipe: With an extra dose of cashews.
- Spicy Shahi Paneer Recipe: Infused with green chilies for a kick.
- Healthy Twist: Use low-fat cream for a lighter version.
Health Benefits of Paneer
Paneer, the star of this dish, is rich in protein, calcium, and phosphorus, promoting bone health and muscle development.
Pairing Shahi Paneer with Accompaniments
Pair Shahi Paneer with naan, roti, or basmati rice for a wholesome meal.
Cultural Significance of Shahi Paneer
This dish has a special place in Indian celebrations and feasts, symbolizing opulence and festive cheer.
Popular Shahi Paneer FAQs
- Can I substitute cashews with almonds in Shahi Paneer?
- While it alters the flavor slightly, almonds can be a good substitute.
- How do I make Shahi Paneer less spicy?
- Adjust the quantity of green chilies or omit them for a milder version.
- Can I use store-bought paneer?
- Yes, but fresh homemade paneer is recommended for the best texture.
- Is Shahi Paneer suitable for vegans?
- You can experiment with tofu as a vegan alternative.
- Can I freeze Shahi Paneer Recipe?
- It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it, keeping in mind potential texture changes.
Related Recipes
History of Shahi Paneer
Believed to have originated in the Mughal era, Shahi Paneer Recipe was a favorite among the royals, showcasing the culinary finesse of the time.
Innovative Twists to the Traditional Recipe
Experiment by adding fruits like pineapple or apricots for a sweet twist to the traditional savory Shahi Paneer Recipe.
Celebrating Festivals with Shahi Paneer
Include this dish in your festive menu for a touch of grandeur and celebration.
Social Media and Shahi Paneer
Explore the hashtag #ShahiPaneerLove to find inspiration from food enthusiasts worldwide.
Shahi Paneer Around the World
This Indian delight has found its way into international cuisines, adapted to suit diverse palates.
In conclusion, Shahi Paneer is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration on your plate. Try this royal dish to experience the richness and depth of Indian flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, Shahi Paneer is a culinary adventure worth undertaking.