Paneer Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan and Cucumber-Yogurt Salad
Tips for Experienced Cooks
Consider using a cast-iron skillet for cooking the paneer as it provides even heat distribution and excellent char. Experiment with homemade garam masala for a more authentic and personalized flavor. Additionally, you can make your own paneer at home for a fresher taste.
Step 1: Make the Paneer Tikka Masala
In a large bowl, combine the paneer cubes, 1 cup of yogurt, 2 teaspoons of garam masala, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Mix well and let marinate for 30 minutes.
- 1 pound paneer (cubed)
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Step 2: Cook the Paneer Tikka
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated paneer cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly charred on the outside.
- 2 tablespoons oil
Step 3: Make the Tikka Masala Sauce
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Then add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, heavy cream, and remaining spices (1 teaspoon garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon turmeric). Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
- 3 tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Step 4: Assemble the Paneer Tikka Masala
Add the cooked paneer cubes to the sauce and gently stir to combine. Garnish with chopped cilantro.
- Cooked paneer from step 2
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Step 5: Make the Garlic Naan
Follow the instructions on the package to prepare the garlic naan.
- 1 loaf garlic naan
Step 6: Prepare the Cucumber-Yogurt Salad
In a bowl, combine the diced cucumber, remaining 1 cup of plain yogurt, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well.
- 1 cucumber (diced)
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- Salt and pepper to taste
Meat, Eggs, & Dairy
- 1 pound paneer
- 2 cups plain yogurt
Fresh Produce & Herbs
- 3 whole tomato
- 1 whole onion
- 1 whole cucumber
Seasonings & Spices
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon ginger
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 cup cilantro
Pantry Items
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 loaf garlic naan