Shahi Paneer Recipe : A Royal Treat for Your Taste Buds

If you love rich, creamy, and aromatic Indian curries, Shahi Paneer should be at the top of your list. This Mughlai-inspired dish combines soft paneer cubes with a luxurious gravy made from cashews, cream, and a blend of fragrant spices.[ Palify.io ] Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to something indulgent, this recipe for Shahi Paneer is sure to impress. In this blog, you’ll discover its origins, ingredients, and a simple step-by-step method to make it perfectly at home.

Shahi Paneer – The Royal Delight

The word “Shahi” means royal, and this dish truly lives up to its name. Originally part of the Mughal kitchen, Shahi Paneer is known for its creamy texture, subtle sweetness, and rich flavor.[ Palify.io ] Unlike spicier curries, this one is mild, making it a favorite for people who prefer a more balanced taste.

What Makes Shahi Paneer Special?

• Luxurious gravy: Made with cashews, cream, and sometimes almonds, it’s smooth and velvety.

• Balanced spices: A mild, aromatic profile that enhances rather than overpowers.

• Versatility: Perfect with naan, roti, or fragrant basmati rice.

Ingredients for Authentic Shahi Paneer Recipe

Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients for a restaurant-style taste at home:

• Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) – 200–250g, cubed

• Onions – 2 medium, roughly chopped

• Garlic cloves – 4–5

• Ginger – 1-inch piece

• Cashews – 12–15, soaked in warm water

• Fresh cream – 3–4 tablespoons

• Yogurt – 2 tablespoons (optional, for tang)

• Whole spices – 2 green cardamoms, 1-inch cinnamon stick, 2 cloves

• Ground spices – ½ teaspoon turmeric, ½ teaspoon red chili powder, 1 teaspoon garam masala

• Ghee or oil – 2 tablespoons

• Salt – to taste

• Saffron – a few strands soaked in warm milk (optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe for Shahi Paneer

Follow this simple process to make the perfect Shahi Paneer at home:

Step 1: Make the Base Paste

1. Heat 1 tablespoon ghee in a pan.

2. Add chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and whole spices.

3. Sauté until onions turn translucent.

4. Add soaked cashews and cook for 2 more minutes.

5. Cool slightly, then blend into a smooth paste.

Step 2: Prepare the Gravy

1. In the same pan, heat the remaining ghee.

2. Add the onion-cashew paste and sauté for 3–4 minutes.

3. Stir in turmeric and chili powder.

4. Mix in yogurt (if using) and cook for 2 minutes on low heat.

Step 3: Add Paneer and Cream

1. Add paneer cubes to the gravy.

2. Pour in fresh cream and saffron milk.

3. Sprinkle garam masala and gently stir.

4. Simmer for 5 minutes, ensuring the paneer absorbs the flavors.

Pro Tips for the Best Shahi Paneer

• Use fresh paneer: Homemade or freshly bought paneer gives the best texture.

• Adjust sweetness: Some recipes include a pinch of sugar to balance flavors.

• Avoid overcooking paneer: It can turn rubbery if cooked too long.

• Add a royal touch: A drop of rose water or kewra essence enhances aroma.

Advanced Variations to Try

Mughlai White Shahi Paneer

Skip tomatoes completely and focus on cashew-cream gravy for a richer, milder taste.

Tomato-Based Shahi Paneer

Add pureed tomatoes for a tangy twist, similar to restaurant-style curries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make Shahi Paneer without cream?
Yes. You can replace cream with milk and a bit of cashew paste for a similar creamy texture.

Q2: What’s the difference between Shahi Paneer and Paneer Butter Masala?
Shahi Paneer is milder, often with nut-based gravy and aromatic spices, while Paneer Butter Masala is tangier with more tomato flavor.

Q3: Can I freeze Shahi Paneer?
Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If freezing, store only the gravy and add paneer when reheating.

Q4: How can I make it vegan?
Use tofu instead of paneer and coconut cream instead of dairy cream.

Q5: What’s the best bread to serve with Shahi Paneer?
Butter naan, garlic naan, or even lachha paratha pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Shahi Paneer is more than just a curry—it’s a royal culinary experience. With its creamy gravy, mild spices, and rich aroma, it’s a dish that can elevate any meal.[ Palify.io ] Whether you follow the traditional Mughlai method or opt for a modern tomato-based version, mastering this Shahi Paneer recipe means you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavors right at home. So next time you want to impress guests or treat yourself, you know exactly what to cook—Shahi Paneer, the true king of vegetarian curries.