Paneer Tikka Masala is a popular Indian dish that features marinated and grilled paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a rich and flavorful tomato-based gravy. It's a delicious and vegetarian-friendly option that can be served with naan, roti, or rice. Here's a simple recipe to make Paneer Tikka Masala:<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />For Paneer Tikka:<br /><br />250g paneer, cut into cubes<br />1/2 cup thick yogurt (Greek yogurt works well)<br />1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste<br />1 tablespoon lemon juice<br />1 teaspoon red chili powder<br />1 teaspoon cumin powder<br />1 teaspoon garam masala<br />1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder<br />1 tablespoon vegetable oil<br />Salt to taste<br />Skewers (wooden or metal)<br />For Gravy:<br /><br />2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee<br />1 large onion, finely chopped<br />2 large tomatoes, pureed<br />1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste<br />1 teaspoon cumin seeds<br />1 teaspoon red chili powder<br />1 teaspoon garam masala<br />1 teaspoon coriander powder<br />1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder<br />1/2 cup heavy cream<br />1/4 cup water<br />Salt to taste<br />Fresh coriander leaves for garnish<br />Instructions:<br /><br />Paneer Tikka:<br /><br />In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, red chili powder, cumin powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, vegetable oil, and salt.<br />Add paneer cubes to the marinade and coat them well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or longer for better flavor) in the refrigerator.<br />Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto skewers.<br />Grill the paneer on all sides until slightly charred or bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.<br />Gravy:<br /><br />In a separate large skillet or pan, heat vegetable oil or ghee over medium heat.<br />Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.<br />Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until the raw smell disappears.<br />Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.<br />Lower the heat and add red chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few more minutes.<br />Combine Paneer Tikka and Gravy:<br /><br />Carefully remove the grilled paneer from the skewers and add it to the prepared gravy. Gently stir to coat the paneer evenly with the masala.<br />Pour in the heavy cream and water. Stir and simmer for a few more minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.<br />Garnish and Serve:<br /><br />Garnish the Paneer Tikka Masala with fresh coriander leaves.<br />Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.<br /><br />Enjoy your delicious and flavorful Paneer Tikka Masala!
