Shahi Paneer

shahi_paneer

Indian cuisine is renowned worldwide for its rich, flavorful dishes that speak to the country’s cultural diversity and centuries of culinary tradition. From spicy curries to aromatic biryanis, Indian cuisine is a feast for the senses, offering a tantalizing array of colors, textures, and tastes. One such dish that is immensely popular across the country is Shahi Paneer, a sumptuous vegetarian curry that is fit for royalty.

Shahi Paneer, also known as Royal Paneer, is a North Indian dish that is typically served in lavish feasts and special occasions. The dish comprises of soft cubes of paneer, or Indian cottage cheese, that are simmered in a creamy tomato-based gravy alongside a medley of aromatic spices. The resulting dish is a perfect blend of creamy textures and bold flavors, making it a favorite amongst vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

The origins of Shahi Paneer can be traced back to the Mughal era, when the royal kitchens of the empire produced some of the most luxurious and extravagant dishes. The Mughals, who were of Central Asian heritage, brought with them a rich culinary culture that blended Indian and Persian influences. As a result, their cooking style was characterized by rich gravies, complex spice blends, and exquisite presentation. Shahi Paneer is said to have been a popular dish among the Mughal royalty, who relished its creamy texture and mild heat.

The key to making a perfect Shahi Paneer lies in striking a balance between the creaminess of the gravy and the spices that go into it. Kashmiri red chili powder, along with a blend of other spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala, lend the dish its distinct flavor profile. The paneer, which is an essential component of the dish, is made by curdling milk with lemon juice or vinegar, and then pressing it to form a firm block. The paneer cubes are then shallow-fried to give them a slightly crispy exterior, which contrasts with the creamy gravy.

One of the many reasons why Shahi Paneer is so beloved in India is because of its versatility. The dish can be served with a variety of Indian breads such as naan, roti, or paratha, as well as with fragrant basmati rice. The creamy gravy is also perfect for soaking up with a piece of soft, buttery bread. It can be made with a range of accompaniments such as fresh cream, cashew nuts, almonds, raisins, or even dried figs, which add a touch of sweetness to the dish.

In conclusion, Shahi Paneer is a dish that is deeply entrenched in the cultural and culinary roots of India. Its elaborate preparation process, complex flavors, and luxurious textures make it a dish that is fit for royalty. Whether you are a vegetarian or a meat-eater looking to try something new, Shahi Paneer is a dish that should definitely make it to your list of must-try Indian curries.

Ingredients:

  1. 200 grams of paneer (cottage cheese)
  2. 2 chopped onions
  3. 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  4. 2 chopped tomatoes
  5. 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  6. 2-3 green chilies
  7. 1 bay leaf
  8. ½ cup cream
  9. 1 tablespoon ghee
  10. 1 tablespoon oil
  11. 1 tablespoon garam masala
  12. ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  13. 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  14. Salt, to taste
  15. Coriander leaves, for garnishing

Instructions:

  1. Firstly, cut the paneer into cubes and soak it in warm water for about 10 minutes. This will make the paneer soft and tender. Once soaked, drain the water and set the paneer aside.
  2. Next, heat a tablespoon of ghee and a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or kadai over medium heat.
  3. Once the oil and ghee have heated, add the cumin seeds and bay leaf. Fry the cumin seeds until they start to crackle, and then add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  4. Add the ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, and sauté for another minute.
  5. Now, add the chopped tomatoes and sauté until they turn soft and mushy.
  6. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt, and mix well.
  7. Once the spices are well combined, turn the heat to low and add the soaked paneer cubes to the mixture. Gently stir in the paneer cubes, making sure that they are coated with the spice mixture.
  8. Pour half a cup of cream into the mixture and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the paneer is heated through and the mixture is slightly thickened.
  9. Once it has cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
  10. Transfer the Shahi Paneer to a serving dish, garnish with coriander leaves, and serve hot with naan or rice. Enjoy!