Restaurant-Style Paneer Masala: Authentic Indian Recipe
1 hour
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About Restaurant-Style Paneer Masala: Authentic Indian Recipe
Indulge in the rich, creamy delight of Restaurant-Style Paneer Masala, a classic vegetarian Indian dish. This recipe delivers tender paneer cubes simmered in a fragrant, flavorful tomato-based sauce bursting with aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it's surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress.The blend of spices creates a depth of flavor that's both comforting and exciting, making this Paneer Masala a true culinary masterpiece. Serve it hot with fluffy naan, roti, or steamed rice for an authentic Indian dining experience.This recipe provides clear instructions and precise measurements, ensuring even novice cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results. Prepare to be amazed by the simplicity and deliciousness of this beloved Indian dish!
Recipe Time & More
Prep30 minutes
Cook30 minutes
Total1 hour
Ingredients
For the Paneer
- 250 gm Cottage Cheese indian cottage cheese; can be substituted with firm tofu
For the Spice Paste
- 1/2 cup Cashews soaked in warm water for 30 minutes
- 1 tbsp Poppy Seeds khaskhas
- 1 Inch
- 2 Chillies adjust to taste, green
For the Masala
- 1 tbsp Chili Powder adjust to taste, red
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 2 Bay Leaves tamal patra
- 1 tsp Cumin Seeds jeera
- 1 medium Onion finely chopped
- 1 tbsp Ginger-Garlic Paste
- 1 tsp Garam Masala
- 1/4 cup Yogurt curd
- 1 tsp Salt to taste
- 1 cup Water
- 1 tsp Sugar optional, to taste
- 1 cup Tomatoes chopped, fresh or canned
- 1 tbsp Coriander for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Spice Paste
- Combine soaked cashews, poppy seeds, green chilies, and a little water in a blender. Blend until a smooth paste forms.
Sauté Aromatics
- Heat oil in a kadai or large pan. Add bay leaves and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
Build the Masala
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute. Add the prepared spice paste, red chili powder, and garam masala. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.
Simmer the Sauce
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften. Stir in yogurt and salt. Add 1 cup of water and bring to a simmer.
Add Paneer and Finish
- Gently add the paneer cubes to the sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir in sugar (if using).
Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.
Recipe Notes
Expert Tips for the Best Paneer Masala
- For extra richness, use full-fat yogurt.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when sautéing the onions. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the amount of red chili powder to control the spice level according to your preference.
- If you don't have fresh tomatoes, canned diced tomatoes work well too.
Recipe Nutrition
Calories: 12kcalProtein: 1gFat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.6g
4 Comments
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Such a tempting dish! Thank you.
This looks incredible! Thank you.
Such a great recipe! Can’t wait to try it.
Looks so yummy! Excited to make it.