Paneer Tikka Masala: A Flavorful Vegetarian Dish from India

Paneer tikka masala is a popular vegetarian dish from India that consists of marinated and grilled paneer cheese in a creamy tomato-based sauce. This dish is known for its rich and complex flavors and is a favorite among vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. If you’re looking to try your hand at making this delicious dish at home, here’s a recipe to get you started.

Ingredients:

For the paneer tikka:

• 1 block of paneer cheese, cut into cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into cubes
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into cubes
• 1 onion, cut into cubes
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tbsp coriander powder
• 1 tbsp cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt, to taste

For the masala sauce:

• 2 tbsp oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together the ginger-garlic paste, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, red chili powder, yogurt, lemon juice, oil, and salt. Add the paneer cubes, bell peppers, and onions to the marinade and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Thread the paneer, bell peppers, and onions onto skewers and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, turning once, until the paneer is golden brown.
3. In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger and sauté until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the tomato puree and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil starts to separate from the sides.
5. Add the coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, paprika, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a minute.
6. Add the heavy cream to the pan and stir well. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Add the paneer tikka to the sauce and mix well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the paneer is heated through.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan bread.

Tips:

• If you don’t have skewers, you can also grill the paneer tikka on a grill pan or in the oven.
• Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences.
• For a healthier version, you can use low-fat yogurt and coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for later consumption.

In conclusion, paneer tikka masala is a delicious and flavorful dish that’s perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a meatless meal option. With this recipe, you can recreate