Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe | Creamy & Spicy Restaurant-Style Paneer Curry
Introduction To Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe
🕒 Recipe card:
⏱ Prep Time: 20 mins
🥣 Marination Time: 30 mins – 1 hour
🔥 Cook Time: 30 mins
🍽 Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins (including marination)
👩🍳 Servings: 4
📋Ingredients For Paneer Tikka Masala:
1. For the Paneer Tikka:
- 250 grams paneer, cubed
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste 1 tablespoon oil
2. For the Masala Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 cup heavy cream or cashew cream
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
🧆 How to make Paneer Tikka Masala step -by -step recipe:
Step 1. Bake or grill the Paneer:
- In a bowl, mix the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, lemon juice, salt, and oil to make a marinade.
- Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and gently mix to coat the paneer evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil.
- Place the marinated paneer cubes on the baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and slightly charred. You can also grill the paneer on a stove top grill or barbecue.
Step 2. For the Masala Sauce or Gravy:
- In a large pan, heat the oil and butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the tomato puree, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
- Add the heavy cream or cashew cream and mix well. Adjust the consistency by adding water as needed. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Add the baked paneer tikka to the masala sauce and mix gently to coat the paneer with the sauce. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Season with salt to taste.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with Butter Naan, Roti or Jeera Rice or even pulao.A side of onion salad and mint raita .
- .Garnish with fresh coriander leaves
See more recipes : Dal Makhni and Dal Tarka
🧑🍳 Expert Tips For Masala Paneer Tikka:
1. Use Fresh Paneer:
Fresh, soft paneer absorbs the flavors better and has a better texture.
2. Marinate Well:
Ensure the paneer is well-marinated for at least an hour with yogurt and spices for a rich flavor
3. Cook on High Heat:
Grill or pan-fry the marinated paneer on high heat to get a nice char without overcooking.
4. Homemade Masala:
Use freshly ground spices for a more vibrant and aromatic masala.
5. Creamy Gravy:
For a rich and creamy texture, add cashew paste or fresh cream to the gravy.
6. Balance Flavors:
Ensure a balance of spices, sweetness from tomatoes, and a hint of tanginess from yogurt or lemon juice.
7. Garnish:
Finish with fresh coriander leaves and a drizzle of cream for added flavor and presentation.
💥 FAQs About Masala Paneer Tikka:
Q 1.What is Paneer Tikka Masala?
Paneer Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish made with marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) that is grilled or baked and then cooked in a spicy, creamy tomato-based gravy. It's a vegetarian alternative to Chicken Tikka Masala.
Q 2.How do you marinate paneer for Paneer Tikka?
Mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, lemon juice, and salt. Coat the paneer cubes in this mixture and marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Q3.Can I make Paneer Tikka Masala without an oven?
Yes, you can make Paneer Tikka Masala without an oven. You can use a stove top grill pan or even a regular frying pan to cook the marinated paneer until it's slightly charred.
Q 4.What vegetables can I add to Paneer Tikka Masala?
Common vegetables added to Paneer Tikka Masala include bell peppers (capsicum), onions, and tomatoes. These can be marinated and grilled along with the paneer.
Q5.How can I make Paneer Tikka Masala vegan?
To make Paneer Tikka Masala vegan, you can replace paneer with tofu and use plant-based yogurt for the marinade. Also, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of dairy cream for the gravy.
Q 6.What can I serve with Paneer Tikka Masala?
Paneer Tikka Masala is typically served with naan, roti, or rice. It also pairs well with a side of raita (yogurt sauce) and salad.
Q7.How do I make the gravy for Paneer Tikka Masala?
To make the gravy, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until golden brown. Add pureed tomatoes, spices (such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala), and cook until the oil separates. Add cream or yogurt, mix well, and then add the grilled paneer tikka. Cook for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.
Q 8.Can I prepare Paneer Tikka Masala ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Paneer Tikka Masala ahead of time. The flavors actually improve if it sits for a few hours. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days and reheat before serving.
Q9.Is Paneer Tikka Masala gluten-free?
Paneer Tikka Masala is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free yogurt and ensure that all spices and other ingredients are free from gluten contamination.
Q10.How spicy is Paneer Tikka Masala?
The spiciness of Paneer Tikka Masala can be adjusted to taste. Typically, it's mildly spicy, but you can increase or decrease the amount of chili powder and other spices based on your preference.
🎉 Summary on Paneer Tikka Masala
Paneer Tikka Masala is a rich and flavorful Indian curry made with smoky grilled paneer cubes simmered in a creamy tomato-based gravy. Perfectly spiced and full of restaurant-style taste, this dish pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or fragrant basmati rice. Whether for a festive meal or a weekend dinner, Paneer Tikka Masala is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture.
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