Tandoori Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe
Description:
Tandoori Paneer Tikka Masala is a quintessential dish of North Indian cuisine, combining the rich flavors of marinated paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a tantalizing blend of spices. The dish is made even more aromatic with a unique coal smoking method that imparts a traditional tandoori flavor. Served with a cooling raita and naan, this high-protein vegetarian recipe makes for an unforgettable dinner experience.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Side Dish
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Main Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese), cut into ½-inch cubes | 250 grams |
| Coal, for smoking | 2 pieces |
| Homemade tomato puree | 2 cups |
| For Tikka Masala | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Heavy whipping cream | 3 tablespoons |
| Fresh mint leaves (Pudina), chopped | 5 leaves |
| Garlic, crushed | 3 cloves |
| Ginger, crushed | 1-inch piece |
| Fennel seeds (Saunf) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ajwain (Carom seeds) | ½ teaspoon |
| Saffron strands | A few strands |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | ½ teaspoon |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Chaat masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | ¼ teaspoon |
| Black salt (Kala Namak) | ¼ teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt, to taste | – |
Preparation Time:
20 minutes
Cooking Time:
40 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Tikka Masala:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream with chopped mint leaves.
- Using a mortar and pestle, pound the fennel seeds and ajwain (carom seeds) until finely ground, and then add them to the cream mixture.
- Stir in the cumin powder, coriander powder, chaat masala, garam masala, black pepper, red chili powder, black salt, turmeric powder, and a pinch of saffron strands. Mix well to form a fragrant marinade.
-
Marinate the Paneer:
- Add the cubed paneer to the bowl with the prepared marinade. Ensure all the paneer pieces are well-coated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the paneer for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, or overnight for more intense flavor.
-
Prepare the Gravy:
- In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add the crushed ginger and garlic, sautéing for about 30 seconds until aromatic.
- Pour in the homemade tomato puree and bring it to a quick boil. Stir occasionally to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
-
Simmer the Paneer Tikka Masala:
- Add the marinated paneer cubes along with the leftover marinade into the pan with the tomato gravy. Stir gently to combine.
- Let the masala simmer on low heat for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Check the seasoning and adjust salt or spices according to your taste.
-
Coal Smoking for Tandoori Flavor:
- While the paneer is simmering, take two pieces of coal (about 3 inches) and heat them directly on a gas flame using tongs. Allow them to turn red-hot and slightly grey in color (approximately 5 minutes).
- Carefully place the hot coal in a heat-proof bowl.
- Heat a wok or a deep skillet with a lid over medium heat. Once it’s hot, place the bowl with coal inside the skillet, positioning it above the simmering paneer mixture.
- Add a spoonful of ghee (clarified butter) or oil directly onto the hot coal. It will begin to emit smoke.
- Immediately cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid to trap the smoke inside. Lower the heat to the lowest setting and let it sit for 1-2 minutes to allow the paneer to absorb the smoky aroma.
-
Serve the Paneer Tikka Masala:
- Remove the lid, carefully take out the coal bowl, and discard it.
- The smoky, tandoori flavor will infuse the paneer.
- Serve the Tandoori Paneer Tikka Masala hot, paired with your favorite Indian bread, jeera pulao, papad, and a refreshing raita for a complete, satisfying meal.
Tips for a Perfect Tandoori Paneer Tikka Masala:
- Marination is Key: Allow the paneer to marinate for as long as possible to ensure it absorbs all the spices and flavors. Overnight marination is ideal for maximum flavor.
- Coal Smoking Method: This step is crucial for imparting an authentic tandoori flavor to the dish. If you don’t have access to coal, you can skip this step, though the dish will miss the characteristic smoky flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: You can adjust the spice levels to suit your preference. Add more chili powder for a spicier version, or reduce it for a milder taste.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped mint and homemade tomato puree will enhance the flavor and texture of this dish.
This Tandoori Paneer Tikka Masala brings the essence of North India right to your plate. Rich, creamy, and smoky, it’s a dish that is bound to delight your taste buds and make for a truly memorable family dinner. Enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite, and don’t forget to serve it with some naan, rice, or a tangy raita to round off the meal perfectly!
