Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect results

Ingredients

0/16 checked
5
servings
3 cup

Paneer

cubed

1 tsp

Kasuri Methi

crushed

1 tsp

Red Chili Powder

ground

0.25 tsp

Turmeric Powder

ground

1 pinch

Salt

to taste

2 tbsp

Oil

for frying

0.5 tsp

Cumin Seeds

whole

0.5 tsp

Celery Seeds

whole

0.5 cup

Onion

finely chopped

2 tsp

Garlic Paste

paste

1 tsp

Coriander Powder

ground

1 cup

Tomato Puree

canned

0.5 tsp

Royal Cumin

toasted

2 tbsp

Cream

fresh

1 tsp

Green Chili

finely chopped

0.5 tsp

Garam Masala

ground

Step 1
~4 min

Prepare all the ingredients.

Step 2
~4 min

Cut the paneer into cubes.

Step 3
~4 min

In a bowl, add paneer, turmeric powder, red chili powder, kasuri methi, and salt. Mix well and set aside for 20 minutes to marinate.

Step 4
~4 min

Heat oil in a kadhai (wok) or pan.

Step 5
~4 min

Shallow fry the marinated paneer cubes on both sides until lightly golden. Cook for 2-3 minutes and set aside.

Step 6
~4 min

In the same kadhai, add the remaining oil.

Step 7
~4 min

Add cumin seeds and shah jeera (royal cumin).

Step 8
~4 min

After 15 seconds, add finely chopped onions and sauté until soft and translucent.

Step 9
~4 min

Add garlic paste, green chili, and coriander powder. Mix well.

Step 10
~4 min

Add tomato puree, ajwain (celery seeds), and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 11
~4 min

Add the fried paneer, cream, and garam masala. Mix gently.

Step 12
~4 min

Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 13
~4 min

Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Step 14
~4 min

Serve Tawa Paneer Masala hot with tawa paratha and palak raita.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

Expert advice for the best results

Adjust the amount of red chili powder and green chilies to control the spice level.

For a richer flavor, add a dollop of butter or ghee while cooking the masala.

Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.

Cooking Experience

Everything you need to know before you start

Time & Preparation

Cleanup Time

15 mins

Batch Cooking
Friendly
Make Ahead

The masala can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.

Freezable
Kid Friendly

Cooking Environment

Messiness Level
Medium
Smell Intensity
High (Aromatic Spices)
Noise Level
Medium (Sizzling and Stirring)
Elder Friendly
Suitable for seniors

Plating & Presentation

Serving Suggestions

Serve with tawa paratha, roti, or naan.

Pair with a side of raita or salad.

Perfect Pairings

Food Pairings

Tawa Paratha
Palak Raita
Cucumber Raita

Drink Pairings

Cultural Heritage

Discover the story behind this recipe

Origin & Tradition

Region of Origin

North India

Cultural Significance

Popular dish served during celebrations and gatherings.

Style

Occasions & Celebrations

Festive Uses

Diwali
Holi
Weddings

Occasion Tags

Dinner Party
Family Meal
Celebration
Weeknight Dinner

Popularity Score

70/100

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