Shahi Paneer History & Origin:
Shahi Paneer is a rich and creamy Indian dish that originated in the Mughal era. The word ‘Shahi’ means ‘royal,’ and the dish was prepared exclusively for the Mughal kings and queens. The Mughals introduced Persian cuisine to India, which included rich and aromatic dishes made with nuts, saffron, and spices. Shahi Paneer is one such dish that has been adapted and evolved over the years, and now it is a popular dish in Indian cuisine.
Shahi Paneer is a popular North Indian dish that is enjoyed across the country and around the world. The dish is made with paneer, which is a type of Indian cottage cheese that is popular in vegetarian cuisine. Paneer is rich in protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients, making it a healthy addition to any diet.
The gravy of Shahi Paneer is what makes it so special. The gravy is made with a blend of tomatoes, onions, and a variety of aromatic spices, which gives it a unique and delicious flavor. The dish is typically served with naan, roti, or rice, making it a filling and satisfying meal.
Shahi Paneer can be made in different ways depending on the region and the preferences of the cook. Some recipes call for the addition of cashew nuts or almonds, which add a creamy texture and rich flavor to the dish. Other recipes call for the use of yogurt instead of cream, which makes the dish healthier and lower in fat.
Shahi Paneer is a vegetarian dish, which makes it a popular choice for those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet. It is also a popular dish for special occasions like weddings, festivals, and other celebrations.
In addition to being delicious, Shahi Paneer is also a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you like it spicy or mild, creamy or tangy, there is a Shahi Paneer recipe out there for everyone to enjoy.
Shahi Paneer Recipe:
Shahi Paneer is made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a creamy and aromatic tomato-based gravy. The dish is easy to make and is perfect for special occasions. Here is a step-by-step recipe for Shahi Paneer.
Shahi Paneer Ingredients:
- 200 grams of paneer, cut into cubes
- 3 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, chopped
- 1/2 cup cream
- 2 tablespoons ghee
- 1 tablespoon oil (it is recommended to use healthy Cold Pressed Groundnut Oil)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cardamom pods
- 2-3 cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (use healthy Lakadong Turmeric Powder)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
- Salt to taste
- Coriander leaves for garnishing
Method:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan, add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, green chilies, and ginger-garlic paste to the pan and cook until the tomatoes are soft and mushy.
- Let the mixture cool and then blend it into a smooth paste in a mixer grinder.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a pan and add the bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and cumin seeds.
- Add the tomato paste to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala powder to the pan and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Add salt to taste and half a cup of water to the pan and let it simmer for 5-6 minutes.
- Add the paneer cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes until the paneer is coated with the gravy.
- Add the cream to the pan and stir well.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes and switch off the heat.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.
Shahi Paneer Calories:
One serving of Shahi Paneer (100 grams) contains approximately:
- Calories: 300-350
- Fat: 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10-12 grams
- Protein: 15-18 grams
- Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sodium: 400-450 milligrams
Please note that the calorie count may vary depending on the quantity and quality of ingredients used.
Tips & Tricks:
- To make the gravy smoother and creamier, you can strain the tomato-onion paste before adding it to the pan.
- If the gravy is too thick, you can add some water or milk to adjust the consistency.
- For a richer taste, you can add a few cashew nuts or almonds while blending the tomato-onion paste.
- To make the dish healthier, you can use low-fat cream or replace it with yogurt.
In conclusion, Shahi Paneer is a rich and creamy Indian dish that has a royal history dating back to the Mughal era. The dish is easy to make and is perfect for special occasions. It is made with paneer in a tomato-based gravy, which is flavored with aromatic spices and cream. The calorie count of one serving of Shahi Paneer is approximately 300-350, with a significant amount of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. Overall, Shahi Paneer is a delicious and indulgent dish that is loved by many and is sure to impress your guests.