Shahi Paneer Recipe-2025

Shahi Paneer recipe is a rich and creamy North Indian curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cooked in a luxurious gravy of cashews, cream, and aromatic spices. The word ‘Shahi’ means royal, and true to its name, this dish was a favorite in royal Mughlai kitchens. Its smooth, velvety texture and mildly sweet taste make it a perfect centerpiece for special occasions or festive meals.

In this article, we’ll take you through a detailed step-by-step recipe to make restaurant-style Shahi Paneer at home. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this guide will help you master this royal dish with ease.

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🌟 Ingredients Required

Here’s a list of ingredients you need to prepare delicious Shahi Paneer for 3–4 servings:

For the Paneer Gravy:

• • 200–250 grams paneer (cut into cubes)

  • 2 medium onions (roughly chopped)

  • 2 medium tomatoes (pureed or chopped)

  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

  • 10–12 cashew nuts

  • 2–3 green cardamoms

  • 1 small piece of cinnamon stick

  • 2 cloves

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1–2 green chilies (optional, for heat)

  • ½ cup fresh cream (or malai)

  • 2 tbsp curd/yogurt (optional for added richness)

  • 2 tbsp ghee or butter (or oil)

  • Salt to taste

  • ½ tsp sugar (balances flavor)

  • 1½ cups water

Spices:

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• ½ tsp red chili powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• ½ tsp garam masala

• A pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) – optional

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🥘 Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare Cashew and Onion Paste

1. Soak 10–12 cashews in warm water for 10–15 minutes.

2. In a small pan, heat a tsp of oil and sauté chopped onions until golden.

3. Add the soaked cashews and cook for another 2 minutes.

4. Let the mixture cool, then blend into a smooth paste using a little water. This paste is the base of the creamy gravy.

5. 

Step 2: Fry Whole Spices

1. Heat 2 tbsp ghee or butter in a heavy-bottomed pan.

2. Add bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon stick, and cardamoms. Sauté for 30 seconds till aromatic.

3. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook till raw smell goes away.

4. 

Step 3: Cook the Masala

1. Add the onion-cashew paste and sauté on medium flame for 3–4 minutes.

2. Now, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.

3. Add tomato puree and cook till oil starts to separate from the sides.

4. Stir in 2 tbsp curd/yogurt if using. Keep flame low to prevent curdling.

5. 

Step 4: Add Paneer and Cream

1. Add paneer cubes to the cooked masala and mix gently.

2. Pour in ½ cup cream and stir slowly to avoid breaking the paneer.

3. Add 1½ cups water to adjust the consistency. Simmer for 5 minutes.

4. 

Step 5: Final Touch

1. Sprinkle garam masala and kasuri methi.

2. Add a pinch of sugar to balance flavors.

3. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes. Turn off the heat.

4. 

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Shahi Paneer recipe pairs best with:

• Butter Naan

• Tandoori Roti

• Jeera Rice

• Plain Basmati Rice

• Paratha

Garnish with fresh cream or coriander leaves for a restaurant-style finish. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.

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💡 Tips for Perfect Shahi Paneer

• Use fresh paneer: Homemade or store-bought soft paneer makes a big difference.

• Soaking paneer in warm water for 5 minutes before adding to gravy keeps it soft.

• Do not overcook: Paneer can become chewy if overcooked.

• Adjust sweetness: Shahi Paneer is slightly sweet; you can reduce or skip sugar if you prefer a spicier version.

• Cream substitute: Use malai or full-fat milk in place of cream if unavailable.

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🧂 Variations You Can Try

1. Dry Shahi Paneer – Reduce water and cream for a thicker, sabzi-style version.

2. Without Onion-Garlic – Skip onion and garlic for a sattvic or Jain version.

3. Add Nuts – Some versions include almonds or poppy seeds for extra richness.

4. Shahi Paneer Masala Mix – Use ready-made masala blends for a quicker version.

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📜 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 340–380 kcal

• Protein: 12–14 g

• Fat: 28–30 g

• Carbohydrates: 8–10 g

Note: These values vary based on the amount of cream and paneer used.

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📖 History and Origin

Shahi Paneer originates from the Mughal kitchens of India. “Shahi” means royal, and this dish reflects the lavish use of dairy and spices associated with royalty. Over time, it became a staple in North Indian households and restaurant menus. Unlike spicy curries like Kadai Paneer or Paneer Tikka Masala, Shahi Paneer is known for its mild sweetness and smooth, creamy texture.

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🔖 Conclusion

Shahi Paneer is the perfect dish to prepare for festive celebrations, dinner parties, or simply when you’re in the mood for something royal. With its creamy texture, subtle spices, and rich flavors, it’s a dish that brings grandeur to your plate.

Make this once, and you’ll be tempted to prepare it again and again. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or guests, this Shahi Paneer recipe is sure to impress.