Shahi Paneer

About Shahi Paneer:

Shahi Paneer is a popular North Indian dish that is known for its rich and creamy texture. Here are some key points about Shahi Paneer:

1. Ingredients: The main ingredients of Shahi Paneer include paneer (Indian cottage cheese), a creamy tomato-based gravy, cream, butter or ghee, and various spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Sometimes, nuts like cashews are also used to enhance the richness.
2. Preparation: To make Shahi Paneer, paneer cubes are first lightly fried or sautéed. The gravy is prepared by blending tomatoes, onions, and sometimes cashews into a smooth paste. This paste is then cooked with spices and cream to create a luscious, silky texture.
3. Flavor Profile: Shahi Paneer has a mildly sweet and tangy flavor due to the tomatoes and cream. The use of spices gives it a warm and aromatic taste, while the addition of nuts and cream adds richness.
4. Culinary Influence: The word “Shahi” means royal in Hindi, indicating its origins from Mughlai cuisine, which is known for its rich and decadent dishes. It’s often served at special occasions and is popular in restaurants across India and beyond.
5. Serving: Shahi Paneer is typically served hot with Indian breads like naan or roti, or with rice dishes like pulao or jeera rice.
6. Variations: There are many variations of Shahi Paneer with regional differences in spices and ingredients. Some recipes use yogurt instead of cream, while others may include raisins or other dried fruits for added sweetness.

Overall, Shahi Paneer is cherished for its creamy texture, balanced flavors, and its ability to be a luxurious treat in Indian cuisine.

How to make Shahi Paneer:

Sure, here’s a classic recipe for Shahi Paneer, a rich and creamy North Indian dish:

Ingredients:

• 200g paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 10-12 cashew nuts, soaked in warm water for 15 minutes
• 1/2 cup fresh cream
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)
• 1 tablespoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), crushed (optional)
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cashew Paste:

• Drain the soaked cashew nuts and blend them into a smooth paste using a little water. Set aside.

1. Fry the Paneer:

• Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
• Fry the paneer cubes until they turn golden brown. Remove them from the pan and set aside on a plate.

1. Make the Gravy:

• In the same pan, add another tablespoon of ghee or oil if needed.
• Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

1. Add Ginger-Garlic Paste:

• Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

1. Add Tomato Puree:

• Add the tomato puree and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil starts to separate from the masala.

1. Add Spices:

• Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.

1. Add Cashew Paste:

• Add the cashew paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.

1. Add Water:

• Add half a cup of water (adjust for desired consistency) and bring the gravy to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.

1. Add Paneer and Cream:

• Gently add the fried paneer cubes to the gravy. Mix well, ensuring the paneer is coated with the sauce.
• Pour in the fresh cream and stir gently. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

1. Finish with Kasuri Methi (optional):
   • Sprinkle crushed kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) over the Shahi Paneer for an added layer of flavor. Stir gently.
2. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
   • Shahi Paneer is ready to be served hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Enjoy your delicious Shahi Paneer! Adjust the spices and cream according to your taste preferences for a truly royal experience.