Paneer Tikka Masala
Dive into the world of indulgent vegetarian delight with a Paneer Tikka Masala recipe, a quintessential Indian dish that combines the succulence of grilled paneer with the richness of a spiced tomato-based curry. This culinary masterpiece takes the beloved paneer tikka to new heights, enveloping it in a luscious masala that’s a symphony of aromatic spices. As the smoky aroma of charred paneer mingles with the enticing fragrance of masala, join us on a gastronomic journey where textures and flavors harmonize to create a dish that captivates the senses.
Ingredients:
For Paneer Tikka:
- 250g paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed
- 1/2 cup thick yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Skewers for grilling
For Masala Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon red chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 cup cashew nuts, soaked and blended into a smooth paste
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
Paneer Tikka:
- In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, turmeric powder, salt, and vegetable oil to create the marinade.
- Add paneer cubes to the marinade, making sure each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 1-2 hours.
- Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto skewers.
- Grill the paneer skewers until they are golden brown and have a slight char. You can use an oven or stovetop grill pan.
Masala Sauce:
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- Add pureed tomatoes, red chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
- Pour in the cashew paste and cook for a few more minutes.
- Add water to achieve the desired consistency. Season with salt.
- Add the grilled paneer skewers to the masala sauce. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
Nutritional Notes:
- Paneer (Cottage Cheese): Provides protein, calcium, and healthy fats.
- Yogurt: Adds creaminess and provides probiotics.
- Cashew Nuts: Contribute to a creamy texture and provide healthy fats.
- Spices: Offer flavor and may have potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Values per Serving):
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Protein: 12-15g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Saturated Fat: 7-9g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8-10g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 3-4g
- Sugars: 5-6g
Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Adjustments can be made based on individual dietary preferences and needs. Serve Paneer Tikka Masala with rice or Indian bread for a delicious and satisfying meal.
As our gastronomic adventure with Paneer Tikka Masala concludes, the memory of creamy masala and tender paneer lingers, a testament to the artistry of Indian vegetarian cuisine. Whether savored with naan, rice, or other Indian breads, this dish invites you to savor the richness of flavors and the joy of vegetarian indulgence. As the last bite is relished, may the essence of this culinary experience stay with you, inspiring your own kitchen endeavors. Until the next encounter with the magic of Indian spices, happy cooking and flavorful indulgence!