If you're a fan of rich and creamy Indian cuisine, Paneer Tikka Masala is a must-try! This dish combines the smoky flavors of marinated and grilled paneer with a luscious tomato-based curry. Whether served with naan, roti, or rice, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

For Paneer Tikka:

• 200g paneer (cottage cheese), cubed

• ½ cup thick yogurt

• 1 tbsp gram flour (besan)

• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp oil

• Salt to taste

For Masala (Curry):

• 2 tbsp oil or butter

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 tomatoes, pureed

• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• ½ tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

• ¼ cup fresh cream

• Salt to taste

• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Paneer

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, gram flour, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, coriander powder, lemon juice, salt, and oil.

2. Add paneer cubes to this marinade and coat them well.

3. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes for better flavor absorption.

Step 2: Grill the Paneer

1. Heat a grill pan or tandoor, grease with a little oil.

2. Place marinated paneer cubes on the grill and cook until they develop a nice char on all sides.

3. Keep aside for later use.

Step 3: Prepare the Masala (Curry)

1. Heat oil or butter in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

3. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.

4. Pour in the tomato puree and cook until oil separates from the masala.

5. Add red chili powder, turmeric, garam masala, salt, and kasuri methi.

6. Stir well and add fresh cream for a rich texture.

7. Finally, add grilled paneer cubes and let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

2. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Tips for the Perfect Paneer Tikka Masala

• Use fresh and soft paneer for the best texture.

• Marinating paneer for a longer time enhances the flavors.

• Grill the paneer over high heat to get a smoky flavor.

• Adjust spice levels according to your preference.

Paneer Tikka Masala is a delicious fusion of smoky and creamy flavors. Try this recipe and indulge in restaurant-style flavors at home. Let us know how it turns out!

Happy Cooking! 🍽️