Description
Paneer Tikka Masala is a comforting Indian vegetarian dish made with grilled paneer cubes simmered in a rich, spiced tomato cream sauce. Served with rice or naan, it’s a perfect meal for any day that calls for bold, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
400g paneer, cubed
1/2 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
2 teaspoons garam masala
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons oil (for grilling paneer)
1 tablespoon butter or ghee
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 1/2 cups tomato puree
1/2 cup heavy cream or cashew cream
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, garlic, ginger, and salt. Add paneer cubes and coat well. Let it marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
2. Heat oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Grill or sear the marinated paneer until golden and lightly charred on all sides. Set aside.
3. In a deep pan, melt butter or ghee. Sauté chopped onions until golden brown.
4. Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
5. Stir in tomato puree, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. Cook until oil separates and the sauce deepens in color.
6. Pour in cream or cashew cream, simmer until sauce thickens and becomes velvety.
7. Add grilled paneer to the sauce and gently stir to coat. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a swirl of cream. Serve hot with rice or naan.
Notes
For a vegan version, substitute paneer with tofu and dairy ingredients with plant-based options.
Marinating the paneer for at least an hour gives a deeper, more authentic flavor.
Add a pinch of sugar if your tomatoes are too tangy to balance the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: paneer tikka masala, vegetarian curry, Indian dinner