Shahi Paneer: A Rich, Creamy Dish for Paneer Lovers

Introduction:

Welcome to Punjab Flavours, where we bring you the rich and diverse culinary heritage of India. Today, we delve into the royal kitchens of the Mughal Empire to present a recipe that epitomizes luxury and flavor: Mughlai Shahi Paneer. This dish, known for its creamy texture and aromatic spices, is a delightful blend of paneer cubes simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy made with almonds, cashews, and a medley of traditional spices.

Shahi Paneer, often reserved for special occasions and celebrations, offers a taste of royalty with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to treat yourself to something special, this recipe will guide you to create a masterpiece that promises to captivate your taste buds and transport you to an era of grandeur and indulgence.

What is Shahi Paneer?

Mughlai Shahi Paneer is a classic Indian dish that originated in the royal kitchens of the Mughal emperors. It combines the velvety texture of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a luscious, aromatic gravy made from a blend of cashews, cream, and a myriad of spices. The result? A dish that exudes indulgence and sophistication in every bite.

The Power of Paneer:

Paneer, the star ingredient of this dish, is not just any cheese – it’s a versatile culinary gem cherished in Indian cuisine. With its mild flavor and unique ability to absorb spices, paneer serves as the perfect canvas for the rich flavors of the Mughlai Shahi Paneer gravy. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

Crafting the Perfect Gravy:

The key to achieving the signature creaminess of Mughlai Shahi Paneer lies in the preparation of the gravy. A delicate balance of ingredients such as cashews, cream, yogurt, and aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. The gravy is simmered to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together and infuse every piece of paneer with irresistible goodness.

Step-by-Step Recipe:

Now, let’s embark on the journey of creating this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Mughlai Shahi Paneer:

Ingredients:

250g paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed
2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, finely chopped
A tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
teaspoon of cumin seeds
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
1/4 cup cashew nuts, soaked in water for 30 minutes
1/4 cup fresh cream
A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
Salt to taste
Chopped coriander leaves for garnish

Step 1: Prepare the Paneer

Cube the paneer and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cashew Paste

Drain the soaked cashew nuts and blend them into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Warm ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.

Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

Its time to add ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 2 minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
Include chopped tomatoes and cook until they become tender and pulpy.

Step 4: Spice it Up

Introduce turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala into the pan.

Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes until the spices are fragrant and well combined with the onion-tomato mixture.

Step 5: Create the Gravy

Add the cashew paste to the pan and stir well to combine with the spices.
Pour in the fresh cream and mix until everything is well incorporated.
If using saffron, soak the saffron strands in a tablespoon of warm milk and add it to the gravy for added flavor and color.

Step 6: Add Paneer and Simmer

Gently add the paneer cubes to the gravy and stir gently to coat them with the sauce.
Allow the paneer to simmer in the gravy for 5-7 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together and the paneer to absorb the richness of the sauce.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once the paneer is heated through and the gravy has reached your desired consistency, turn off the heat.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of freshness and flavor.
Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.Enjoy the luxurious creaminess of your homemade Mughlai Shahi Paneer, and revel in the rich flavors of this regal delight

Conclusion:

Indulging in the luxurious creaminess of Mughlai Shahi Paneer is not just a culinary experience; it’s a journey through the rich tapestry of Indian flavors and traditions. With its aromatic spices, velvety gravy, and tender paneer, this regal dish epitomizes the essence of Mughlai cuisine. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply craving a taste of royalty, Mughlai Shahi Paneer promises to delight your senses and transport you to a world of gastronomic bliss.

Health benefits of mughlai shahi paneer

Mughlai Shahi Paneer, while being a rich and indulgent dish, also offers several health benefits. Paneer, or Indian cottage cheese, is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It is also rich in calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth. The nuts used in the gravy, such as almonds and cashews, provide healthy fats, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin E and magnesium, which are beneficial for heart health and overall well-being.

The spices used, including cumin, cardamom, and cloves, not only add depth of flavor but also possess anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Additionally, yogurt adds probiotics, which are good for gut health. While it is a rich dish, enjoying Mughlai Shahi Paneer in moderation can be a delicious way to incorporate these nutritious ingredients into your diet.

FAQs:

Can I use store-bought paneer instead of homemade?

Absolutely! While homemade paneer adds a unique texture and freshness to the dish, you can definitely use store-bought paneer as a convenient alternative. Just make sure to cut it into cubes and fry or soak it in warm water before adding it to the gravy.

Can I make Mughlai Shahi Paneer ahead of time?

Absolutely, you can make the gravy in advance and refrigerate it for 2-3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the gravy and incorporate the paneer cubes However, it’s best to add the paneer just before serving to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming too soft.

Is there a vegan version of Mughlai Shahi Paneer?
Absolutely! You can substitute paneer with tofu or soy paneer to make a vegan version of this dish. Additionally, you can use plant-based cream instead of dairy cream and omit the ghee, opting for oil instead. The flavors will still be rich and indulgent, making it a delightful vegan alternative.