Green Paneer Tikka Masala – Creamy North Indian Delight

Hariyali Paneer Tikka Masala Gravy (Green Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe)

Ingredients

• 250 grams Paneer (cottage cheese), cut into cubes
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 50 grams fresh coriander, finely chopped
• 20 grams fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 inch ginger, finely chopped
• 1 inch cinnamon stick
• 2 cardamom pods
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala powder
• 1/4 cup fresh cream
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter (for cooking)

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: High-Protein Vegetarian

Instructions

To prepare Hariyali Paneer Tikka Masala Gravy, follow these simple steps for a delicious, aromatic dish that pairs wonderfully with naan or rice.

1. Prepare the Green Paste:
   Begin by placing fennel seeds, fresh coriander, mint leaves, chopped ginger, and green chilies into a blender. Add a little water to help blend the ingredients into a smooth paste. This will form the aromatic green base for your curry.

2. Cook the Spices:
   Heat a tablespoon of butter in a deep pan or kadhai over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and hot, add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cardamom pods. Sauté the spices for about 15 seconds to release their fragrance.

3. Add Tomato Puree:
   Next, add the pureed tomatoes to the pan. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to thicken and integrate with the spices.

4. Spice it Up:
   Add the freshly ground green paste to the tomato mixture along with salt, garam masala powder, and chaat masala powder. Stir everything well and cover the pan. Let it cook for 5-6 minutes on low heat so that the flavors meld together.

5. Add Cream and Paneer:
   After the spice mixture has cooked, add the fresh cream and stir to combine. Then, gently add the paneer cubes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the creamy, flavorful sauce.

6. Final Touches:
   Turn off the heat, and your Hariyali Paneer Tikka Masala is ready to serve.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Garnish with extra fresh coriander if desired and serve hot with garlic dal (lentils) and roti or naan for a delightful lunch.

This vibrant and flavorful dish brings together the earthy taste of paneer with the freshness of herbs and spices, making it a perfect addition to your North Indian meal spread. Enjoy the rich, green gravy that’s packed with fresh flavors and a hint of spice, creating a perfect balance for any occasion.