Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe
Ingredients:
- 400g (14 oz) paneer, cubed
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped, about 150g (5.3 oz)
- 2 tomatoes, pureed, about 250g (9 oz)
- 2 tablespoons (30g) yogurt
- 1 tablespoon (15g) ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon (5g) cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon (5g) coriander powder
- 0.5 teaspoon (2.5g) turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon (5g) garam masala
- 0.5 teaspoon (2.5g) chili powder
- 150ml (5 oz) heavy cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
For Marination:
- 200g (7 oz) yogurt
- 1 tablespoon (15g) ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon (5g) red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon (5g) garam masala
- 0.5 teaspoon (2.5g) turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
Step 1: Marinating the Paneer
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, salt, and lemon juice. Mix well to form a smooth paste. Add the cubed paneer, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors infuse.
Step 2: Grilling the Paneer
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated paneer onto skewers if using a grill. Lightly brush or spray with oil to prevent sticking. Grill the paneer until golden and slightly charred on the edges, about 5-7 minutes per side. Set aside.
Step 3: Preparing the Masala
In a large saucepan over medium heat, add vegetable oil. Once hot, sauté the finely chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste, cooking until fragrant. Incorporate the pureed tomatoes, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Mix well and let simmer for 15 minutes until the mixture thickens and oil separates from the masala.
Step 4: Combining and Simmering
Add the grilled paneer cubes to the masala. Gently stir to coat the paneer with the flavorful sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow the paneer to simmer gently for 10 minutes to absorb the sauce’s flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and finish with a sprinkle of garam masala.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Garnish the Paneer Tikka Masala with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or chapati. Accompany your dish with lemon wedges for an added citrusy kick when tasting the subtle notes of the spices.
Conclusion
Delight in the rich concoction of Paneer Tikka Masala, a testament to the vibrant tapestry of Indian cuisine. The juxtaposition of grilled paneer with savory masala creates an enticing dish that captures the heart of culinary artisanship. Perfect for special occasions or a sumptuous night in, this dish promises a whirlwind of flavor in every bite. Enjoy the experience of crafting a beloved classic, and remember to share this joy with family and friends.
