Shahi Paneer
Shahi Paneer is a rich, creamy, and mildly sweet Indian curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) simmered in a luscious gravy of tomatoes, cashews, and cream, flavored with aromatic spices. It's a regal dish perfect for special occasions.
Instructions
Soak cashews in warm water for 15-20 minutes. Cut paneer into 1-inch cubes. You can shallow fry or blanch the paneer if desired, but it's optional for Shahi Paneer.
Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add whole spices: green cardamom, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and light golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
Add chopped tomatoes, salt, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften completely and the oil starts to separate from the mixture (about 8-10 minutes).
Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Discard the bay leaf. Transfer the mixture to a blender along with the soaked cashews (drained) and a splash of water. Blend to a very smooth paste.
Return the smooth paste to the same pan. Cook on low-medium heat, stirring frequently, for 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens and oil separates again. Be careful as it tends to splatter.
Add about 1/2 to 1 cup of water to adjust the gravy's consistency. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
Stir in fresh cream, garam masala, sugar (if using), and crushed kasuri methi. Mix well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Gently add the paneer cubes to the gravy. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors. Do not overcook paneer as it can become rubbery.
Garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.
👨🍳 Chef's Tip
For an extra rich gravy, you can add a tablespoon of plain yogurt or a pinch of saffron soaked in warm milk along with the cream. Adjust sugar and red chilli powder to your preference for sweetness and spice. Ensure the gravy is blended very smoothly for the best texture.