### Shahi Paneer Recipe – Restaurant Style
Shahi Paneer is an opulent Indian delicacy ideal for festive occasions and gatherings. This decadent and creamy paneer curry is crafted with a mix of spices, blanched onions, and cashews, resulting in a delicious dish that complements a variety of Indian breads like roti, naan, or kulcha, along with rice preparations.
#### Ingredients
– **For the Gravy:**
– 200 grams paneer, diced
– 2 large onions, blanched
– 1/4 cup cashew nuts
– 1/2 cup fresh cream
– 1-2 green chilies (adjust according to taste)
– 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons ghee or butter
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Blanched Onions:**
– Blanch the onions by boiling them in water for approximately 5 minutes. Drain and allow them to cool. Once cooled, blend into a smooth paste.
2. **Make the Cashew Paste:**
– Soak the cashew nuts in warm water for around 15 minutes. Drain and blend into a smooth paste with a touch of water if necessary.
3. **Cook the Gravy:**
– In a pan, warm ghee or butter over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
– Incorporate the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until aromatic.
– Add the onion paste and cook until the mixture turns golden brown, stirring occasionally.
– Stir in the cashew paste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. **Add Spices:**
– Blend in coriander powder, garam masala, and red chili powder (if using). Cook for a minute to ensure the spices meld together.
5. **Incorporate the Paneer:**
– Soak the paneer cubes in lukewarm water for a few minutes. This keeps them tender.
– Carefully add the soaked paneer to the simmering gravy. Stir gently to coat the paneer without breaking it.
6. **Finish with Cream:**
– Add the fresh cream and mix thoroughly. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes on low heat, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors.
– Adjust salt according to taste.
7. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with naan, roti, or pulao.
#### Tips for Perfect Shahi Paneer
– **Blanching Onions:** Blanching the onions aids in achieving a smooth and creamy consistency without darkening the dish.
– **Fresh Ingredients:** Opt for fresh cream and premium paneer for optimal flavor.
– **Adjusting Spice Levels:** Modify the number of green chilies based on your spice tolerance.
This restaurant-style Shahi Paneer is destined to captivate your guests and elevate any meal. Savor the luxurious flavors and creamy consistency that this dish provides!