Scratch-Cook Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe

Dietary Info: Vegetarian & Gluten-Free (see note at end for Vegan option)

Savor the rich and creamy flavors of our Paneer Tikka Masala, a classic vegetarian Indian curry! This popular dish features marinated and grilled paneer cubes simmered in a spiced tomato-based gravy, creating the perfect balance of smoky and tangy flavors. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this Paneer Tikka Masala recipe is easy to make and pairs beautifully with naan or basmati rice. Bring the taste of authentic Indian cuisine to your table with this crowd-pleasing vegetarian favorite!

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Prep time: 15 mins; Cook time: 20-30 mins; Serves 4-6

INGREDIENTS FOR MARINATING PANEER TIKKA MASALA:

  • Paneer or Firm Tofu (cut in 1" cubes) - 1.5 LBs
  • Plain whole milk yogurt - 1/3 cup
  • Cooking oil - 2 Tbsp
  • Lime juice - 1 1/2 Tbsp
  • Peeled and chopped garlic - 2-3 cloves
  • Salt (as per taste) - 1/2 to 1 tsp
  • Flavor Temptations Paneer Tikka Masala Spice Mix (contains 5 flavor blends) - 1

STEPS TO MARINATE TRADITIONAL PANEER TIKKA MASALA:

  1. In a small bowl, mix together oil, yogurt, garlic, salt, lime juice and Blend #5 (Marinade mix)
  2. Add paneer / tofu cubes, coating pieces evenly
  3. Cover and marinate for 2-3 hours at room temperature or refrigerate overnight

INGREDIENTS TO MAKE FLAVORFUL PANEER TIKKA MASALA SAUCE:

  • Canola oil - 3 Tbsp
  • Finely chopped onions - 1 cup
  • Canned tomato puree - 2 cups
  • Peeled and chopped Ginger - 2"
  • Heavy cream / half & half (optional) - 2/3 cup
  • Salt to taste -1- 1.5 tsp
  • Water (enough to make thick sauce) - 3/4 cup
  • Chopped cilantro (optional) - 6-8 stems 

STEPS TO MAKE PANEER TIKKA MASALA SAUCE:

  1. In a pan, heat oil, add Blend #1 (Seeds) and step back to allow seeds to burst and sputter, releasing their flavors
  2. Add onions and cook for 2-3 mins on medium heat until soft and transparent
  3. Add ginger, and Blend #2 (Powders) and cook until well blended
  4. Stir in tomato puree
  5. Mix in Blend #3 (Cayenne) adjusting to preferred spice level: (Hot: add all of it; Medium: add half of it; Mild: do not add any)
  6. Cover and cook sauce on medium heat until oil starts to separate
  7. Add water, salt and heavy cream (optional) and bring sauce to a boil
  8. Reduce heat to gently simmer the sauce uncovered, until thickened slightly, stirring occasionally

    WHILE TIKKA MASALA SAUCE IS SIMMERING, COOK PANEER TIKKA PIECES:

    1. Heat a heavy 12" griddle or skillet over moderately high heat until very hot
    2. Add 1/2 Tbsp of oil
    3. Working in batches, cook paneer cubes turning them a few times until just cooked through and browned well on all sides
    4. Add cooked paneer / tofu cubes to simmering sauce and continue to gently simmer, stirring occasionally for 5 minutes. Add a little water if sauce becomes too thick
    5. Stir in Blend #4 (Garam Masala) and simmer 2-3 minutes
    6. Garnish with chopped cilantro(optional)

     SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR PANEER TIKKA MASALA:

     Serve hot over bed of long-grained rice or naan bread.