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Shahi Paneer – Royal Creamy Paneer Curry

Shahi Paneer, meaning “royal paneer,” is a Mughlai delicacy made with paneer cubes in a rich, creamy gravy of cashews, onions, yogurt, and aromatic spices. Unlike spicier paneer dishes, Shahi Paneer is mildly sweet, smooth, and luxurious, making it a favorite in North Indian festive meals.

Nutrition & Benefits:
Paneer is high in protein and calcium, while cashews provide good fats. The creamy base makes it calorie-dense, but it’s a great occasional indulgence.

Serving Suggestions & Variations:

  • Perfect with naan, butter roti, or pulao.

  • Add saffron for a richer flavor and aroma.

  • For lighter version, replace cream with yogurt.

Cooking Tips:

  • Blend cashews into a fine paste for smooth texture.

  • Avoid overcooking paneer to keep it soft.

  • Add cream at the end for a glossy finish.

FAQs:

  • What is the difference between Shahi Paneer and Paneer Butter Masala? → Shahi Paneer is sweeter and creamier, while Paneer Butter Masala is tangy and spicier.

  • Can I make it vegan? → Yes, use tofu instead of paneer and coconut cream instead of dairy cream.

  • Why is my Shahi Paneer grainy? → The cashew paste was not blended fine enough—strain if needed.

Shahi Paneer – Royal Creamy Paneer Curry

Shahi Paneer is a luxurious North Indian dish made with paneer (cottage cheese) simmered in a rich, creamy, mildly sweet cashew-almond-tomato gravy. A Mughlai-inspired vegetarian classic.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mughlai, North Indian
Calories: 390

Ingredients
  

Ingredients:
  • 250 g paneer cubed
  • 2 onions sliced
  • 2 tomatoes chopped
  • 10 cashews + 5 almonds soaked
  • 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tbsp cream
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 2 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste

Method
 

Instructions:
  1. Blend onions, tomatoes, cashews, almonds into smooth paste.
  2. Heat butter + oil, sauté ginger-garlic paste.
  3. Add blended paste, spices, cook until oil separates.
  4. Stir in cream, paneer cubes, simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Garnish with cream swirls and saffron strands (optional).

Notes

Serving Suggestions:
  • Serve hot with butter naan, kulcha, or paratha.
  • Can also be enjoyed with steamed basmati rice or jeera rice.
  • Add fresh salad and pickle for a complete meal.