Paneer Tikka Masala is a classic Indian vegetarian dish that is popular all over the world. It is a flavorful and creamy dish that is perfect for anyone who loves Indian cuisine. Paneer, a type of fresh cheese, is marinated in a blend of spices and then grilled until lightly charred. The grilled paneer is then added to a thick tomato-based sauce along with onions and bell peppers. The dish is finished off with a generous amount of heavy cream and garnished with fresh cilantro.
Ingredients
To make Paneer Tikka Masala for 4 portions, you will need:
- 400g paneer
- 1 large onion
- 1 large green bell pepper
- 1 large red bell pepper
- 1 cup tomato puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp ghee
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp ginger paste
- 1 tsp garlic paste
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 tsp garam masala powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
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Cut the paneer, onion, and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces.
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In a mixing bowl, add ginger paste, garlic paste, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
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Add the paneer, onion, and bell peppers to the mixing bowl and coat them evenly with the spice mix.
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Heat a grill pan or a regular pan over medium-high heat. Add ghee and cumin seeds. Let the cumin seeds crackle.
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Add the marinated paneer and vegetables to the pan and cook until lightly charred. Flip them occasionally to cook evenly.
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In the meantime, heat a saucepan over medium heat. Add tomato puree and cook for 2-3 minutes.
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Add the grilled paneer and vegetables to the saucepan and mix well.
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Add heavy cream and stir until well combined. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
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Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.
Variations
Paneer Tikka Masala is a versatile dish that can be customized based on your preferences. Here are some ideas to switch it up:
- Make it vegan by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Add more veggies such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
- Make it spicier by adding more red chili powder or fresh green chilies.
- Make it healthier by using low-fat paneer and reducing the amount of cream used.
Conclusion
Paneer Tikka Masala is a delicious and easy-to-make Indian dish that is perfect for vegetarians and anyone who loves flavorful and creamy food. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this classic dish at home. Try out this recipe and let us know how it turns out!
FAQ
What is Paneer Tikka Masala?
Paneer Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish made with marinated paneer (an Indian cheese) that is grilled or baked and then simmered in a mildly spiced tomato-based gravy.
What ingredients do I need to make Paneer Tikka Masala?
To make Paneer Tikka Masala, you will need paneer, yogurt, spices, tomatoes, butter, cream and onion.
Can I use tofu instead of paneer?
Yes, you can use tofu instead of paneer if you prefer a vegan version of the dish. Keep in mind that the texture and taste will be different.
How do I make the paneer tikka for this dish?
To make the paneer tikka, you need to marinate the paneer in a mixture of yogurt and spices, then grill or bake it until it is slightly charred.
Can I use store-bought paneer for this dish?
Yes, you can use store-bought paneer for this dish. However, homemade paneer will give a fresher taste and texture to the dish.
How spicy is Paneer Tikka Masala?
Paneer Tikka Masala is usually mildly spiced. However, you can adjust the level of spiciness according to your taste.
How long can I store leftovers of Paneer Tikka Masala?
You can store leftovers of Paneer Tikka Masala in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze Paneer Tikka Masala?
Yes, you can freeze Paneer Tikka Masala. It’s best to freeze it in individual portions for easier reheating later.
What can I serve with Paneer Tikka Masala?
Paneer Tikka Masala is usually served with rice, naan bread, or roti.
Can I make Paneer Tikka Masala ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Paneer Tikka Masala ahead of time and reheat it before serving. However, keep in mind that the texture of the paneer may change slightly upon reheating.
