Shahi Paneer

Introduction

History

Shahi Paneer has its origins in Mughlai cuisine, which was developed in the royal kitchens of the Mughal Empire in India. The word "Shahi" translates to "royal" in Hindi, indicating the rich and decadent nature of this dish fit for kings and queens.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the dish, you can add a pinch of garam masala or kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) at the end of cooking.

- For a creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of fresh cream or cashew paste to the gravy.

- Be careful not to overcook the paneer as it can become tough and rubbery. Add the paneer cubes towards the end of cooking to prevent this.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Shahi Paneer hot with naan, roti, or rice.

- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a dollop of cream for an extra touch of luxury.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the onions and tomatoes until the oil separates helps develop the flavor of the gravy and gives it a rich and aromatic taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use store-bought paneer or make your own at home using milk and lemon juice or vinegar.

- If you don't have fresh tomatoes, you can use canned tomato puree as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the paneer cubes and simmer before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Shahi Paneer in a decorative serving dish garnished with silver varq (edible silver leaf) for a royal touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Shahi Paneer with jeera rice, pulao, or butter naan for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

20g per serving

Proteins

15g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Shahi Paneer is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

Contains dairy (paneer) and nuts (cashew paste).

Summary

Shahi Paneer is a high-protein and high-fat dish with moderate carbohydrate content. It is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice when consumed in moderation.

Summary

Shahi Paneer is a decadent and flavorful dish that is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to a royal feast. With its creamy texture and rich taste, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother. I remember watching her in the kitchen, her hands moving deftly as she chopped, stirred, and seasoned dishes with a skill that seemed almost magical to me.

One day, as I was helping my mother prepare dinner, she mentioned a special dish called Shahi Paneer. She told me that it was a rich and creamy curry made with paneer, a type of Indian cheese, and a blend of aromatic spices. I was intrigued by the sound of it and begged my mother to teach me how to make it.

She smiled and handed me a worn and stained notebook, telling me that the recipe for Shahi Paneer was written inside. She explained that she had learned how to make the dish from her own mother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. As I flipped through the pages of the notebook, I felt a sense of connection to the long line of women who had passed down this recipe through generations.

I followed the instructions carefully, soaking the paneer in warm water to soften it before frying it until golden brown. I ground together a mixture of cashews, almonds, and poppy seeds to create a rich and creamy base for the curry. I added in a blend of aromatic spices – cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves – to create a fragrant and flavorful sauce.

As the Shahi Paneer simmered on the stove, filling the kitchen with its tantalizing aroma, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. When my family sat down to eat, their faces lit up with delight as they took their first bites of the creamy and decadent curry. My mother smiled at me, her eyes shining with pride, and I knew that I had found a recipe that would become a treasured family favorite.

Over the years, I have made Shahi Paneer countless times, each time tweaking and perfecting the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, who have all marveled at the rich and complex flavors of this dish. It has become a staple at family gatherings and special occasions, a dish that brings people together and fills their hearts with warmth and comfort.

The recipe for Shahi Paneer is more than just a list of ingredients and instructions – it is a link to the past, a connection to the women who came before me and passed down their knowledge and love through the art of cooking. It is a reminder of the importance of tradition and the power of food to create memories and forge bonds that can last a lifetime.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this recipe, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned and the experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. And as I prepare to pass this recipe on to the next generation, I do so with the hope that it will continue to bring joy and nourishment to those who taste it, just as it has done for me and my family for so many years.

Categories

| Fresh Chile Pepper Recipes | Milk And Cream Recipes | Onion Recipes | Paneer Recipes | Punjabi Recipes | Punjabi Vegetarian | Tomato Recipes | Yogurt Recipes |

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