Homemade Paneer Tikka Masala That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

Preparation Steps

1. 1

   Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, add 3 tablespoons of neutral-tasting oil, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon turmeric powder, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne powder. Whisk these together until well combined.

2. 2

   Marinate the Paneer: Fold 16 ounces of cubed paneer into the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit while preparing the sauce.

3. 3

   Sauté Onions: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of ghee. Sauté the diced onion for about 5 minutes until softened.

4. 4

   Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced serrano chile pepper, garlic, and grated ginger and cook for about 20 minutes until rich in color.

   20 min
5. 5

   Incorporate Spices: Add 1 ½ teaspoons of garam masala and ½ teaspoon of paprika. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes.

   3 min
6. 6

   Blend the Sauce: Pour in 1 can of tomato sauce, cool slightly, then blend until smooth.

7. 7

   Return to the Skillet: Return the sauce to the skillet, add sliced green bell pepper, 1 tablespoon dried fenugreek leaves, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Stir well.

8. 8

   Simmer the Sauce: Simmer over medium-low heat for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

   5 min
9. 9

   Cook the Paneer: In a separate skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of neutral-tasting oil and pan-fry the marinated paneer for 3 to 5 minutes until golden.

   3 min
10. 10

    Combine Cream and Paneer: Add between 1 ¼ – 1 ¾ cups of heavy cream to the sauce. Stir well and adjust seasoning.

11. 11

    Finish with Paneer: Add the pan-fried paneer to the sauce and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.

12. 12

    Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust the lemon juice as desired. Serve immediately with basmati rice or naan.