Perfect for- This dish is best suited for house parties and birthdays and can also be very well enjoyed at family gatherings or just a weekday lunch

Preparation Time- 15 minutes

Cooking Time- 15-20 minutes (oven) or 5-7 minutes (stovetop)

Health Benefits- Paneer is a good source of protein that keeps you satisfied and is a rich source of calcium, which is crucial for bone health.

Instructions:

• Marinate Paneer: Mix dahi, ginger-garlic paste, spices, salt, lemon juice, and oil in a bowl. Add paneer cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
• Cook Paneer Tikka
• Oven: Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Arrange the paneer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly charred.
• Stovetop: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Thread the paneer cubes onto skewers (optional), or cook them directly in the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly charred.
• Make the Masala: Heat butter or ghee in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add bay leaf, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon stick. Saute for a minute until fragrant.
• Add chopped onion and cook until softened about 5 minutes. Add tomato, ginger, garlic, and green chilli paste (optional). Cook until the mixture becomes mushy.
• Stir in coriander powder, garam masala powder, turmeric powder, and red chilli powder. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add cashews and cook for a minute. Pour in milk or tomato puree. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add kasuri methi and season with salt to taste.
• Gently add the cooked paneer tikka to the curry and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
• Stir in heavy cream (optional) for a richer sauce.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with roti, naan, or rice.

Tips:

• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less red chilli powder.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped capsicum or bell peppers.
• If you don’t have skewers, you can cook the paneer cubes in the marinade in a pan on the stovetop.
• Leftover paneer tikka can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.