### Shahi Paneer Recipe – Restaurant Style
Shahi Paneer is an indulgent and opulent Indian dish that is ideal for festive occasions and get-togethers. This luscious, flavorful paneer curry is prepared with a foundation of blanched onions and cashew nuts, making it a perfect complement to various Indian breads such as naan, kulcha, or paratha, along with rice preparations.
#### Ingredients
– **For the Gravy:**
– 200 grams paneer (cut into cubes)
– 2 large onions (blanched)
– 10-12 cashew nuts
– 1-2 green chilies (tweak to your preference)
– 1-inch segment of ginger
– 2-3 cloves of garlic
– 1/2 cup fresh cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons ghee or butter
– Salt to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
– **Spices:**
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional, for color)
– A pinch of saffron strands (optional)
#### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Gravy:**
– Begin by blanching the onions. Boil them in water for around 5 minutes, then drain and cool. This method aids in creating a smooth, white gravy.
– In a blender, mix the blanched onions, cashew nuts, green chilies, ginger, and garlic. Blend until a smooth paste is formed.
2. **Cooking the Gravy:**
– In a pan, warm the ghee or butter over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them crackle.
– Add the onion-cashew paste and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the raw aroma disappears and the mixture thickens.
– Incorporate salt, garam masala, cardamom powder, and red chili powder (if using). Stir well.
3. **Add Paneer:**
– Soak the paneer cubes in lukewarm water for about 10 minutes to soften them.
– Introduce the soaked paneer to the bubbling gravy. Gently stir to cover the paneer with the sauce.
4. **Finishing Touches:**
– Add the fresh cream and milk, mixing to blend. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes on low heat.
– If using saffron, soak it in a tablespoon of warm milk and mix it into the curry for added richness.
5. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Decorate with fresh coriander leaves.
– Serve hot alongside naan, kulcha, or your preferred rice.
#### Tips for Best Results
– **Paneer Preparation:** Refrain from frying the paneer before adding it to the gravy. Soaking it in warm water keeps it tender and allows it to soak up the flavors of the curry.
– **Blanching Onions:** Properly blanching the onions is crucial for obtaining the dish’s characteristic white hue and smooth consistency.
– **Fresh Ingredients:** Opt for fresh cream and premium spices for the richest flavor.
This restaurant-style Shahi Paneer is guaranteed to delight your guests and enhance your dining experience. Savor the rich tastes and creamy texture that make this dish a beloved choice in Indian cuisine!