Shahi Paneer

Shahi Paneer is a regal and indulgent North Indian dish that reflects the rich culinary heritage of Mughlai cuisine. “Shahi” translates to royal, and true to its name, Shahi Paneer is characterized by its creamy texture and luxurious flavors. This dish features paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes cooked in a velvety tomato-based gravy, enriched with cream, nuts, and aromatic spices. The blend of cashews, almonds, and aromatic spices lends a unique richness and depth to Shahi Paneer, making it a favorite in festive and celebratory meals across India. Its mild yet flavorful taste makes it a popular choice among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Shahi Paneer is often served at weddings, parties, and special occasions, where it pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or rice. The creamy gravy and tender paneer cubes make every bite a delightful experience, leaving a lasting impression of the grandeur of Mughlai cuisine.

Ingredients Required for Making Shahi Paneer

• Paneer (पनीर) – 250 grams, cubed
• Onions (प्याज) – 2 large, roughly chopped
• Tomatoes (टमाटर) – 3 medium, chopped
• Cashew Nuts (काजू) – 15-20, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes
• Almonds (बादाम) – 10-12, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes
• Fresh Cream (ताज़ी क्रीम) – 1/2 cup
• Ginger (अदरक) – 1-inch piece, chopped
• Garlic (लहसुन) – 4 cloves
• Green Cardamom (इलायची) – 2 pods
• Cloves (लौंग) – 2
• Cinnamon Stick (दालचीनी) – 1-inch piece
• Bay Leaf (तेज पत्ता) – 1
• Red Chili Powder (लाल मिर्च पाउडर) – 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric Powder (हल्दी पाउडर) – 1/2 teaspoon
• Garam Masala (गरम मसाला) – 1/2 teaspoon
• Kasuri Methi (कसूरी मेथी) – 1 teaspoon, crushed
• Sugar (चीनी) – 1 teaspoon
• Oil (तेल) – 2 tablespoons
• Ghee (घी) – 1 tablespoon
• Salt (नमक) – to taste
• Fresh Coriander Leaves (ताज़ा धनिया पत्ते) – for garnish

The Step-wise Process of Cooking Shahi Paneer

1. Prepare the Gravy Base:
   • Drain the soaked cashews and almonds. Blend them into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor with a little water if needed.
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 tablespoon of ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add bay leaf, green cardamom pods, cloves, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
   • Add chopped onions, ginger, and garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
2. Cook the Tomatoes:
   • Add chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy, stirring occasionally.
3. Make the Masala Paste:
   • Once the tomatoes are cooked, remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool down slightly.
   • Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend into a smooth paste.
4. Prepare the Shahi Paneer Gravy:
   • Heat the remaining oil in the same pan over medium heat. Add the tomato-onion paste back to the pan.
   • Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes until the masala starts to leave the sides of the pan.
5. Add Paneer and Cream:
   • Add the paneer cubes to the masala. Mix gently to coat the paneer with the gravy.
   • Stir in fresh cream and crushed kasuri methi. Add sugar to balance the flavors.
6. Simmer and Garnish:
   • Simmer the Shahi Paneer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
   • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Number of Servings

This recipe serves 4 people.

Time Required to Make Shahi Paneer

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes soaking time for nuts)
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Important Points to Keep in Mind While Making the Dish

• Soak cashews and almonds adequately to ensure they blend into a smooth paste.
• Adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding water as needed.
• Use fresh paneer for best results or soak store-bought paneer in warm water before using to soften it.

How to Serve Shahi Paneer

Shahi Paneer is traditionally served hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a drizzle of cream for an extra touch of richness.

Final Thoughts

Shahi Paneer is a dish fit for royalty, with its creamy texture and aromatic flavors. Enjoy the process of creating this majestic dish at home and savor every bite of its rich, Mughlai-inspired goodness.

CLICK HERE for some more delicious Paneer / Cheese Recipes.