Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe using Spice Mix

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