Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe
If you’re a fan of rich, creamy curries and smoky, char-grilled flavors, Paneer Tikka Masala is sure to become your favorite go-to dish. A North Indian classic, this dish brings together the best of both worlds—the succulent grilled paneer cubes and the rich, velvety masala sauce. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create that restaurant-style taste at home, complete with the secrets to achieving the perfect balance of spices. Paneer Tikka Masala is known for its layers of flavor—tangy marinated paneer, a smoky char from the grill, and a luscious tomato-based gravy enriched with spices and a touch of cream. It’s a wholesome, comforting dish that pairs beautifully with naan, jeera rice, or even a simple paratha.
Why You’ll Love This Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe
This Paneer Tikka Masala recipe is a must-try for every Indian food lover! Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this dish is sure to impress. Here’s why you’ll love making this easy homemade Paneer Tikka Masala:
- Restaurant-Style Taste at Home: Enjoy the rich, creamy flavor of restaurant-style Paneer Tikka Masala without leaving your kitchen. The perfectly spiced gravy combined with tender, marinated paneer brings the authentic taste of India to your plate.
- Simple and Quick to Make: You don’t need to be a professional chef to make this dish. This easy Paneer Tikka Masala recipe breaks down every step, from marinating the paneer to creating the luscious gravy, making it beginner-friendly.
- Customizable Spice Levels: Whether you love a mild or spicy curry, you can easily adjust the heat to suit your preferences. This recipe offers a perfect balance of spices, but you can always add more or less depending on your taste.
- Perfect for Special Occasions or Weeknight Dinners: This versatile dish is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to a cozy dinner at home. Paneer Tikka Masala pairs beautifully with naan, rice, or even paratha, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Made with Simple Ingredients: You don’t need fancy ingredients to prepare this best Paneer Tikka Masala. The recipe uses easily available spices and pantry staples, allowing you to make this rich and flavorful dish whenever the craving strikes.
- Health benefits of eating Paneer: 100 grams of paneer on an average contains 20 grams of fat and protein and less than 2 grams of carbohydrate. For more information you can click here.
So, if you’re looking for a delicious Paneer Tikka Masala recipe, this one checks all the boxes. It’s quick, easy, and delivers an unforgettable taste with every bite!
Detailed Recipes of Paneer Tikka Masala
Whether you’re familiar with making Indian curries or trying your hand at it for the first time, our detailed step-by-step guide will ensure you master this iconic dish effortlessly. Learn how to make the perfect marinade for paneer, create a robust masala gravy, and bring it all together into a meal that bursts with flavor and authenticity. Paneer Tikka Masala isn’t just about indulgence—it’s a celebration of Indian spices, aromas, and textures, perfect for those who love their meals full of heart and soul.
Keep reading to discover how you can recreate this classic in your own kitchen, with tips for getting the perfect tikka, tricks to balance the spices, and expert advice to make your dish stand out!
Paneer Tikka Masala
Ingredients
For Paneer Tikka
- 400 gram Paneer (cubed)
- 1 cup thick Yogurt (curd)
- 2 tablespoon Gram Flour (Besan)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger-Garlic Paste
- 1 teaspoon Red Chili Powder
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Powder
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
- 1 tablespoon Mustard Oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 Onion (cut into cubes)
- 1 Bell Pepper (cut into cubes)
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 15 mins)
For Masala Gravy
- 3 tablespoon Oil or Ghee
- 2 Medium Onions (finely chopped)
- 2 Medium Tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 teaspoon Ginger-Garlic Paste
- 1 tablespoon Coriander Powder
- 1 teaspoon Red Chili Powder
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Powder
- 1 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1 teaspoon Garam Masala
- ¼ cup Fresh Cream
- 10-12 Cashews (soaked in water and ground into a paste)
- 2 tablespoon Butter
- 1 teaspoon Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 2 tablespoon Fresh Coriander (chopped)
- Salt to taste
Instructions
1. Marinate the Paneer
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, gram flour, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, mustard oil, lemon juice, and salt.
- Add the paneer cubes, onion, and bell pepper to this marinade. Mix gently to coat everything evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
2. Grill the Paneer
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (or use a grill pan).
- Thread the marinated paneer, onion, and bell pepper onto the skewers.
- Place the skewers on a baking sheet or grill them on the pan, brushing with oil occasionally, until the paneer gets golden brown and slightly charred. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Masala Gravy
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
- Add coriander powder, red chili powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the cashew paste and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add butter, garam masala, and kasuri methi. Mix well.
4. Combine and Serve
- Gently add the grilled paneer tikka into the gravy. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Add fresh cream and mix well. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve Paneer Tikka Masala hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.
Notes
- For an authentic smoky flavor, use the Dhungar method. Heat a piece of charcoal until red hot, place it in a bowl, and pour a little ghee over it. Cover the paneer with the bowl and let the smoke infuse for a few minutes.
- Swap out heavy cream with Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a lighter, yet creamy gravy.
- Add a handful of fresh chopped cilantro or fenugreek (kasuri methi) toward the end for a burst of fresh, herby flavor.
Paneer Tikka Masala is more than just a dish—it’s a symphony of textures and flavors that never fails to impress. From the smoky, grilled paneer to the rich, aromatic gravy, each bite takes you on a culinary journey straight to the heart of North India. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your table.
Serving Suggestions for Paneer Tikka Masala
Paneer Tikka Masala is a beloved dish known for its rich, creamy texture and smoky, spicy flavors. To make your Paneer Tikka Masala meal memorable, pairing it with the right sides and garnishes can enhance the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate this flavorful dish.
1. Pair with Indian Breads: Naan, Roti, or Paratha
The rich and creamy gravy of Paneer Tikka Masala pairs beautifully with various Indian breads. Naan—whether butter naan or garlic naan—soaks up the gravy wonderfully, giving each bite a burst of flavor. For a healthier option, whole-wheat rotis work well and provide a chewy contrast to the softness of the paneer. If you’re in the mood for indulgence, layered parathas offer a flaky texture that complements the dish’s creaminess.
For an extra-special touch, make stuffed kulchas with a hint of garlic or coriander. The thick texture of kulchas holds up well to the masala, letting you scoop up both paneer and gravy in one satisfying bite.
2. Basmati Rice or Jeera Rice
Paneer Tikka Masala’s gravy is beautifully enhanced when paired with rice. Basmati rice is a classic choice, with its long grains and subtle aroma that lets the flavors of the masala shine. For a slightly more flavorful option, serve it with jeera rice (cumin-infused rice), which brings a warm, earthy taste that blends well with the spices in the paneer masala.
For those who prefer a mild sweetness with their spicy dishes, coconut rice can add a unique twist. The creamy coconut flavor provides a gentle contrast to the tangy and spicy notes of the masala.
3. Side Dishes: Raita and Salads
To balance the richness of Paneer Tikka Masala, adding a cooling side dish like raita is ideal. Cucumber or mint raita not only cools down the heat but also adds a refreshing flavor to the meal. For a more colorful plate, you can make a boondi raita or a pomegranate raita for a hint of sweetness and texture.
Salads can also add a fresh contrast. A simple cucumber, tomato, and onion salad dressed with lemon juice and a pinch of salt pairs well. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the gravy, refreshing your palate.
4. Pickles and Chutneys
A small portion of Indian pickles (achaar) can add a tangy kick to your meal. Mango pickle, lemon pickle, or green chili pickle bring in a burst of flavor that complements the creamy and mildly sweet Paneer Tikka Masala.
5. Garnishing Tips
Garnishing your Paneer Tikka Masala enhances its visual appeal and adds layers of flavor. Sprinkle fresh coriander leaves on top for color and aroma, and add a drizzle of cream for a restaurant-style look. You could also add a small wedge of lemon on the side to add a zesty twist when desired.
Final Tip
Serve Paneer Tikka Masala warm, ideally in a heated serving dish to keep the gravy hot throughout the meal. Pairing it with the right sides can elevate this already delicious dish into a complete, satisfying meal that captures the essence of Indian cuisine.
The beauty of Paneer Tikka Masala lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the spice level, tweak the ingredients, or pair it with your favorite sides like buttery naan or fragrant basmati rice. Plus, this dish holds up wonderfully for leftovers, so you can enjoy its deliciousness even on busy days.
Now that you know the secrets to making the perfect Paneer Tikka Masala, it’s time to bring those restaurant flavors home. Your kitchen will be filled with the tantalizing aromas of this irresistible curry, and trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a regular feature in your recipe repertoire.
You can also try Veg Biryani, Daal Makhani also to enhance your experience.
Get ready to impress with your new found skills, and don’t forget to share your creations with us here at Recipe Rahasya!
Let me know how it turned out in the comments below!
Happy Cooking, Recipe Rahasya.
FAQs About Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe
Can I make Paneer Tikka Masala without an oven?
Yes! If you don’t have an oven, you can easily pan-fry or grill the marinated paneer in a hot skillet. Cook on medium heat until the paneer is golden brown on all sides before adding it to the gravy.
What can I use instead of Paneer in Paneer Tikka Masala?
You can substitute paneer with tofu for a vegan option, or even add grilled vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, or mushrooms. These options give a similar texture and flavor to the dish.
Is Paneer Tikka Masala spicy?
Paneer Tikka Masala has a mild to medium spice level, but you can adjust the heat according to your preference. Reduce or increase the amount of green chilies or red chili powder to make it less or more spicy.
How do I get a restaurant-style creamy gravy for Paneer Tikka Masala?
To achieve a rich, creamy gravy, use fresh cream or cashew paste in the sauce. You can also blend some of the cooked tomatoes and onions for a smooth texture before adding the cream.
Can I make Paneer Tikka Masala ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gravy and the paneer tikka separately in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and combine them when you’re ready to serve. Reheat the dish on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How can I make a healthier version of Paneer Tikka Masala?
For a lighter version, use low-fat paneer and substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat coconut milk. You can also reduce the amount of oil or butter used in the recipe.
How long does Paneer Tikka Masala last in the fridge?
Paneer Tikka Masala can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Paneer Tikka Masala?
Yes, Paneer Tikka Masala can be frozen for up to a month. Store it in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Just keep in mind that the texture of the paneer might change slightly after freezing.
What’s the best way to serve Paneer Tikka Masala?
Paneer Tikka Masala pairs well with naan, basmati rice, jeera rice, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of salad or raita to balance the richness of the gravy.
Can I use store-bought paneer for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought paneer works perfectly fine for this recipe. Just make sure to soak it in hot water for a few minutes before marinating to make it soft and tender.
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