Paneer Shahjahani is a sumptuous dish that brings the opulence of royal Indian cuisine to your table. Known for its creamy texture and rich, nutty flavors, this dish is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something extraordinary. Follow this detailed guide to create a delectable Paneer Shahjahani that will impress your family and guests.
Ingredients
For the Paneer
- 250 grams paneer, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
For the Gravy
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1/2 cup cashew nuts, soaked in warm water for 30 minutes
- 1/4 cup fresh cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 green cardamom pods
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Optional
- Saffron strands soaked in warm milk (for extra richness)
- Silver leaf (for a royal touch)
Instructions
Preparing the Paneer
- Frying the Paneer
- In a pan, heat up two tablespoons of ghee or oil.
- After adding, cook the paneer cubes till golden brown.
- Remove the paneer and drain on a paper towel.
Preparing the Gravy
- Making the Cashew Paste
- Drain the soaked cashews and grind into a smooth paste using a little water if needed. Set aside.
- Spices and Aromatics
- In the same pan, add more ghee or oil if needed.
- Add cumin seeds, cardamom pods, cinnamon stick, cloves, and bay leaf. Sauté until aromatic.
- Onion and Tomato Base
- Finely chop the onions and cook them until they get golden brown.
- Sauté the ginger-garlic paste for an additional two minutes.
- Cook the tomato puree until the mixture separates from the oil.
- Incorporating Spices
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir thoroughly and heat for a short while.
- Adding Cashew Paste
- Add the cashew paste and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
- Cream and Milk
- Add fresh cream and milk, mixing well to form a smooth, creamy gravy.
- If using, add saffron milk for an extra touch of luxury.
- Final Touches
- Add fried paneer cubes to the gravy and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors.
- Sprinkle garam masala and mix well.
Garnishing and Serving
- Garnish
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and, if desired, silver leaf for a royal presentation.
- Serving
- Serve Paneer Shahjahani hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.
Tips for Perfect Paneer Shahjahani
- Fresh Paneer: Use fresh, high-quality paneer for the best results. Homemade paneer can elevate the dish.
- Creaminess: Adjust the amount of cream and milk to achieve your desired level of creaminess. For a richer taste, you can add more cashew paste or cream.
- Sautéing: Ensure the onions are well sautéed until golden brown, as this forms the base flavor of the gravy.
- Consistency: The gravy should be smooth and creamy. If it becomes too thick, adjust the consistency by adding a little water or milk.
Paneer Shahjahani is more than just a dish; it’s an experience of royal flavors and textures that transport you to a time of grandeur and luxury. By following this recipe, you can recreate a piece of culinary history in your own kitchen, making any meal a special occasion. Enjoy the indulgence and richness of Paneer Shahjahani, and share this delightful experience with your loved ones.
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FAQs
What makes Paneer Shahjahani unique?
Answer: Paneer Shahjahani is unique for its rich, creamy, and nutty gravy, infused with royal spices and luxurious ingredients like cashew paste and saffron.
Can I prepare Paneer Shahjahani in advance?
Answer: Yes, you can prepare the gravy in advance and refrigerate it. Add the paneer and reheat gently before serving to retain its fresh taste and texture.
What alternatives can I use for cashew nuts?
Answer: You can use almonds or a mix of almonds and cashews to make the paste if cashews are not available. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How can I make Paneer Shahjahani healthier?
Answer: To make it healthier, use low-fat milk and cream, and reduce the amount of ghee or oil. You can also add more vegetables like peas or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Is Paneer Shahjahani suitable for a vegan diet?
Answer: Paneer Shahjahani can be made vegan by substituting paneer with tofu and using plant-based milk and cream. Ensure all other ingredients, like saffron, are vegan-friendly.