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Shahi Paneer Recipe - Creamy Mughlai Delight with Paneer

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    ChefPandas
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🍲 About This Dish

Shahi Paneer, a beloved Indian dish, originated in the royal kitchens of the Mughal Empire. It reflects the opulence and richness of Mughlai cuisine, known for its creamy textures and aromatic flavors. Shahi translates to "royal," signifying the dish's luxurious nature, often served on special occasions and celebrations.

🌶️ Ingredients Overview

  • Paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
  • Ghee (clarified butter)
  • Cashew nuts (kaju)
  • Cream (malai)
  • Yogurt (dahi)
  • Onions (pyaaz)
  • Tomatoes (tamatar)
  • Ginger (adrak)
  • Garlic (lehsun)
  • Green cardamom (elaichi)
  • Cinnamon (dalchini)
  • Cloves (laung)
  • Turmeric powder (haldi)
  • Red chili powder (lal mirch)
  • Garam masala
  • Salt

✨ What Makes It Special

Shahi Paneer showcases regional variations across India, with each region adding its unique touch to the recipe. In North India, the dish tends to be creamier and richer, emphasizing the use of cashews and cream. In contrast, South Indian variations may include coconut milk for a slightly different flavor profile.

📝 Ingredients

  • 250g paneer, cubed
  • 1/4 cup ghee
  • 1/4 cup cashew nuts, soaked
  • 1/4 cup cream
  • 1/2 cup yogurt
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, pureed
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2-3 green cardamoms
  • 1-inch cinnamon stick
  • 2-3 cloves
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste

🥄 Spice Blend (Masala)

To make the spice blend, combine and grind:

  • 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
  • 1 tsp coriander seeds (dhania)
  • 1/2 tsp black peppercorns (kali mirch)
  • 1/2 tsp fennel seeds (saunf)

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. Heat ghee in a pan and add the whole spices (cardamom, cinnamon, cloves).
  2. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
  3. Add ginger, garlic, and the ground spice blend. Cook for a few minutes.
  4. Stir in tomato puree, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the ghee separates.
  5. Blend cashew nuts with water to form a smooth paste. Add it to the pan.
  6. Add yogurt and cook until the mixture thickens.
  7. Gently add paneer cubes, cream, and garam masala. Simmer for a few minutes.
  8. Garnish with fresh cream and coriander leaves before serving.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation: 15 minutes
  • Cooking: 30 minutes
  • Total: 45 minutes

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Shahi Paneer pairs perfectly with naan, roti, or jeera rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for an added aroma.

💭 Chef's Notes

  • To enhance the dish's richness, soak the paneer cubes in warm milk before adding them to the gravy.
  • Adjust the cream and cashew nut quantities based on personal preference for creaminess.
  • For a vegan version, substitute dairy products with plant-based alternatives like cashew cream and tofu.

📦 Storage

Store any leftover Shahi Paneer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water to retain the gravy's consistency.

Enjoy the regal flavors of Shahi Paneer, a dish that epitomizes the grandeur of Mughlai cuisine and Indian culinary heritage!