Hariyali Paneer Tikka Masala Gravy Recipe – A Flavorful Green Delight
Hariyali Paneer Tikka Masala is a rich, aromatic North Indian dish that combines soft cubes of paneer (cottage cheese) with a vibrant green gravy made from fresh coriander, mint, and a blend of spices. The name “Hariyali” translates to “green,” referring to the color of the rich, flavorful gravy that coats the paneer. This dish is a perfect harmony of spice and creaminess, with green chillies adding a gentle heat to the rich flavors. Whether you’re planning a lunch for the family or a special occasion, this dish makes for a delightful main course.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
For Paneer:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (chopped) | 250 grams |
For Hariyali Masala (Green Gravy):
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fennel seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Green chillies (finely chopped) | 2 |
| Coriander leaves (finely chopped) | 50 grams |
| Mint leaves (finely chopped) | 20 grams |
| Tomatoes (puree) | 2 |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1 inch |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 inch |
| Cardamoms | 2 |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Chaat masala powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cream | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | To taste |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon (or as needed) |
Preparation Time:
20 minutes
Cooking Time:
25 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Hariyali Masala (Green Gravy):
Begin by making the green masala. In a blender, combine fennel seeds, coriander leaves, mint leaves, green chillies, and finely chopped ginger. Add a little water and grind everything into a smooth paste. -
Cook the Gravy Base:
Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Once the butter melts, add bay leaves, cinnamon stick, and cardamoms. Let these spices cook for about 15 seconds to release their fragrance. -
Add the Tomato Puree:
Next, add the freshly made tomato puree to the pan. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and blend into the spices. -
Spice It Up:
Now, add the freshly ground green masala paste to the pan. Stir in salt, garam masala powder, and chaat masala powder. Mix everything together well and cover the pan. Let it cook for 5-6 minutes on medium-low heat to allow the flavors to come together. -
Finish the Gravy:
After the masala has cooked, add cream to the mixture. Stir until it blends well with the spices. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to achieve a creamy consistency. -
Prepare the Paneer:
Add the chopped paneer to the gravy, gently mixing it in so that the paneer cubes are well-coated with the masala. Allow it to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes so that the paneer absorbs the flavors of the gravy. -
Final Touches:
Once the gravy is thick and creamy, and the paneer is soft and tender, turn off the heat. Your Hariyali Paneer Tikka Masala is ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions:
For a perfect meal, serve Hariyali Paneer Tikka Masala with Garlic Daal and Phulkas. The creamy green gravy, combined with the soft paneer, pairs beautifully with the subtle flavors of garlic dal and freshly made phulkas, making it an ideal choice for lunch.
Tips for Perfect Hariyali Paneer Tikka Masala:
- Paneer Texture: If you prefer your paneer to have a more substantial texture, lightly pan-fry the cubes before adding them to the gravy.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you like a milder version of this dish, reduce the number of green chillies used in the green paste.
- Make It Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to meld together, so it’s a great option for meal prep or serving at a dinner party.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approx. 290
- Protein: 15 grams
- Fat: 22 grams
- Carbohydrates: 8 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful North Indian dish that is sure to leave your taste buds craving for more. The combination of fresh greens, aromatic spices, and creamy sauce makes Hariyali Paneer Tikka Masala a must-try for any paneer lover!
