If you’re a fan of Indian cuisine, then Paneer Tikka Masala is likely one of your favorites. This rich, creamy, and flavorful dish combines the smoky taste of marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a tangy tomato-based gravy. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned home chef, this Paneer Tikka Masala recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves authentic Indian flavors.
What is Paneer Tikka Masala?
Paneer Tikka Masala is a popular North Indian dish that consists of grilled paneer cubes (tikka) simmered in a spiced, creamy tomato gravy. The paneer is first marinated in a blend of yogurt and spices, then grilled or baked until it achieves a smoky flavor. The tikka is then combined with a luscious, spicy gravy to create a dish that’s rich in taste and texture.
Why Paneer Tikka Masala is So Loved
Paneer Tikka Masala is adored for its perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors. The marinated and grilled paneer adds a depth of flavor to the dish that’s hard to resist. The gravy is rich and spiced, yet not overwhelmingly hot, making it a favorite among both kids and adults.
Ingredients for Paneer Tikka Masala
To make this delightful Paneer Tikka Masala recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Paneer Tikka:
- 250g paneer, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup thick yogurt
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil
For the Masala Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1/2 cup water or as needed
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Optional:
- 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- A pinch of sugar
How to Make Paneer Tikka Masala: Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Marinate the Paneer
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, cumin powder, lemon juice, salt, and oil. Mix well to form a smooth marinade. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let the paneer marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. Learn how to make homemade paneer for a fresher, more flavorful dish.
2. Grill or Bake the Paneer Tikka
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) or prepare a grill. Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto skewers. Grill or bake the paneer for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway, until the edges are slightly charred. The smoky flavor is what makes this dish stand out.
3. Prepare the Masala Gravy
In a large pan, heat the oil and butter over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add the Spices and Tomato Puree
Stir in the coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook the spices for a minute before adding the tomato puree. Cook the mixture until the oil starts to separate from the masala. This step ensures that the raw taste of the tomatoes is cooked out, giving the gravy a rich flavor.
5. Simmer the Gravy
Add water as needed to achieve the desired consistency. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the masala from sticking to the pan.
6. Incorporate the Cream
Lower the heat and stir in the cream. Cook for another 5 minutes until the gravy is creamy and smooth. For added flavor, you can also add a pinch of sugar and kasuri methi at this stage.
7. Combine the Gravy with Paneer Tikka
Add the grilled paneer tikka to the masala gravy. Gently stir to coat the paneer with the gravy. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. Try our homemade naan recipe for the perfect pairing with Paneer Tikka Masala.
Tips for Making the Perfect Paneer Tikka Masala
- Use Fresh Paneer: Fresh paneer absorbs the flavors of the marinade better. If possible, make your own paneer at home. Here’s our guide to making paneer from scratch.
- Don’t Overcook the Paneer: Paneer can become rubbery if overcooked. Grill or bake just until the edges are charred, and avoid overcooking it in the gravy.
- Balance the Spices: Paneer Tikka Masala is meant to be flavorful but not overly spicy. Adjust the chili powder according to your taste preferences.
- Add Kasuri Methi: Dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) add a unique flavor to the gravy. Crush the leaves between your palms before adding them to release more aroma.
Variations of Paneer Tikka Masala
1. Paneer Tikka Masala with Vegetables:
Add some bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the marinade along with the paneer. Grill them together and add to the gravy for a more substantial dish.
2. Paneer Tikka Masala without Cream:
For a lighter version, you can skip the cream and use cashew paste instead. Learn how to make cashew paste for creamy gravies.
3. Vegan Tikka Masala:
Replace paneer with tofu and use coconut cream instead of dairy cream for a vegan version of this dish. Explore more vegan Indian recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paneer Tikka Masala
1. Can I Make Paneer Tikka Masala Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply grill the paneer and add it to the reheated gravy.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Paneer Tikka Masala?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to adjust the consistency if needed.
3. Can I Freeze Paneer Tikka Masala?
Yes, Paneer Tikka Masala freezes well. Freeze the gravy and grilled paneer separately for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator and combine when ready to serve.
4. What Can I Serve with Paneer Tikka Masala?
Paneer Tikka Masala pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. Try our Garlic Naan recipe for an extra flavorful meal.
Conclusion
Paneer Tikka Masala is a dish that brings together the best of Indian flavors in one delicious recipe. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or preparing it for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. With this easy-to-follow Paneer Tikka Masala recipe, you can bring the rich, smoky flavors of Indian cuisine to your kitchen. Don’t forget to check out our other Paneer Recipes and Indian dishes to expand your culinary repertoire.