Paneer Tikka Masala is an all-time favorite Indian comfort dish that brings the warmth of Mumbai street food into your kitchen. Creamy, tangy, and spiced just right, this version uses a quick yogurt marinade for the paneer, followed by broiling for smoky charred edges. The rich tomato-cream sauce is fragrant with classic Indian spices, and everything is served over aromatic basmati rice. Perfect for cozy evenings, this dish is meatless yet deeply satisfying, and makes a beautiful, colorful plate for any dinner table.
Ingredients
Instructions
In a large bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, paprika, and salt. Add paneer cubes and toss gently to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes (up to overnight for deeper flavor).
Preheat broiler (or use a grill pan). Arrange marinated paneer cubes on a foil-lined baking tray or skewer them. Broil or grill for 6-8 minutes, turning once, until lightly charred. Set aside.
Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until golden, about 6-8 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and deepened in color.
Add cream and butter to the tomato sauce, stir until combined. Simmer for 2 minutes. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Gently fold in broiled paneer cubes. Simmer together for 2-3 minutes so flavors meld.
Serve hot over fluffy basmati rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro.