Paneer Tikka Masala is a beloved North Indian dish that brings together grilled cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a rich, tomato-based masala sauce. The paneer is marinated in yogurt and spices, then either grilled or pan-cooked before being added to a creamy, spiced gravy. It’s best enjoyed with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. This recipe serves 4.
Ingredients
For the Paneer Marinade
250g paneer, cut into cubes
½ cup thick yogurt (hung curd preferred)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
½ teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon oil
For the Gravy
2 tablespoons oil or butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
2 large tomatoes, pureed
½ teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
½ teaspoon cumin powder
Salt to taste
¼ cup cream or 2 tablespoons cashew paste
Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
Instructions
1. Marinate the Paneer
In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, salt, and oil.
Add paneer cubes and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the fridge).
2. Cook the Paneer
Heat a nonstick pan or grill. Cook the paneer cubes on medium heat until golden brown on all sides. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Masala Gravy
In a pan, heat oil or butter. Sauté the chopped onions until golden.
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute.
Pour in the tomato puree and cook until oil begins to separate (8–10 minutes).
Add turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Finish the Curry
Add cream or cashew paste and mix to get a smooth, rich texture.
Gently stir in the grilled paneer cubes and simmer for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle garam masala and mix. Adjust salt if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve hot with naan, roti, or basmati rice.
Tips
Use hung curd for a thick marinade
Grill paneer in an oven, pan, or air fryer depending on preference
To make it richer, add a spoon of butter while finishing the gravy
Paneer Tikka Masala is comforting, mildly spicy, and great for both everyday meals and special occasions.
