How to make Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe on tawa step by step?

To make paneer tikka masala on tawa, first marinate paneer cubes with yogurt, spices, and gram flour. Let them rest for 30 minutes. Cook the marinated paneer on a greased tawa until golden brown. In the same tawa, prepare a spicy tomato-based masala gravy with onions, tomatoes, and spices. Add the cooked paneer and mix well. Simmer for a few minutes, garnish with coriander, and serve hot with naan or rice.

What ingredients are needed for tawa paneer tikka masala?

The main ingredients for tawa paneer tikka masala include paneer (cottage cheese), yogurt, gram flour, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, cumin, onions, tomatoes, fresh cream, and butter. Spices add rich flavors, while yogurt helps in marination. Gram flour enhances texture, and cream provides a creamy consistency to the gravy. You can adjust spices according to your taste for a balanced and delicious dish.

How long should I marinate paneer for the best tikka flavor?

For the best flavor, marinate paneer for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinate it for 2-3 hours in the refrigerator. This helps paneer absorb the flavors deeply, making it more delicious and aromatic. If you’re in a hurry, a quick 15-minute marination works too, but the longer it sits, the better the taste. Always use thick yogurt for better coating and avoid excess water.

Can I make paneer tikka masala on tawa without yogurt?

Yes, you can make paneer tikka masala without yogurt! Substitute it with cashew paste, coconut milk, or fresh cream for a creamy texture. You can also use lemon juice and gram flour to create a tangy and thick marinade. Another alternative is using dairy-free yogurt if you prefer a vegan version. These substitutes help maintain the creamy texture and enhance the flavors of the dish without using yogurt.

What is the secret to a smoky flavor in tawa paneer tikka?

To get a smoky flavor, you can use the dhungar method. Heat a small piece of charcoal until red-hot, place it in a bowl, and pour a few drops of ghee or oil on it. Cover the bowl inside the paneer tikka for 2-3 minutes to absorb the smoky aroma. Alternatively, slightly char the paneer on high heat while cooking on the tawa to mimic the tandoor effect.

How do I prevent paneer from breaking while cooking on tawa?

To prevent paneer from breaking, use firm and fresh paneer. Cut paneer into thick cubes, and handle it gently while marinating. Do not overcook, as paneer can turn chewy and break. Cooking on medium flame with minimal stirring helps keep the cubes intact. Also, using a non-stick tawa or adding a little oil before cooking prevents sticking and breakage. Homemade paneer is usually softer, so be extra careful.

What are some tips to make restaurant-style paneer tikka masala at home?

For restaurant-style paneer tikka masala, use fresh cream for a rich texture. Roast spices in butter for enhanced flavor. Adding kashmiri red chili powder gives a vibrant color. A small amount of honey or sugar balances the spices. Simmering the gravy longer helps develop deep flavors. Lastly, garnishing with kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) and fresh coriander adds an authentic taste, making your homemade version just like a restaurant’s!

Can I use store-bought paneer for homemade paneer tikka masala?

Yes, store-bought paneer works well for homemade paneer tikka masala. However, to make it softer, soak the paneer in warm water for 10-15 minutes before using it. This improves texture and prevents it from becoming chewy. If possible, choose fresh paneer from a dairy store rather than packaged paneer, as it has a better taste and texture. Homemade paneer is the best option, but store-bought is a good alternative.

What are the best side dishes to serve with paneer tikka masala?

Paneer tikka masala tastes best with naan, roti, or jeera rice. You can also serve it with parathas, garlic butter naan, or plain steamed rice for a complete meal. Adding a side of onion salad, cucumber raita, or masala papad enhances the experience. If you want a full North Indian meal, pair it with dal makhani and a refreshing drink like mango lassi or buttermilk.

How to make paneer tikka masala without cream while keeping it creamy?

If you want to skip cream but keep the dish creamy, use cashew paste, almond paste, or blended soaked melon seeds. Another option is adding a little milk or curd instead of cream. If you want a dairy-free version, coconut milk works well too. Blending a few cooked onions and tomatoes into the gravy gives it a rich, thick texture naturally without using heavy cream.

How to Make Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe on Tawa Easily

If you love the smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors of restaurant-style paneer tikka masala but don’t have a tandoor at home, don’t worry! You can easily make it on a tawa. This guide will show you How to Make Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe on Tawa Easily at Home, ensuring the same authentic taste without any fancy equipment. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious homemade version of paneer tikka masala.

Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe

Paneer Tikka Masala is a flavorful and rich dish made with marinated paneer cubes cooked to perfection and then simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato-based gravy. The smoky and slightly charred flavor of the paneer combined with the luscious masala makes this dish a favorite among vegetarians. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is simple and easy to follow, ensuring restaurant-like taste at home.

Ingredients

For Paneer Tikka:

200g paneer (cubed)
½ cup thick yogurt
1 tbsp gram flour (besan)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
½ tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder
½ tsp garam masala
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tbsp oil
Salt to taste
1 medium onion (cubed)
1 medium bell pepper (cubed)

For Masala Gravy:

2 tbsp butter or oil
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 medium onion (finely chopped)
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
1 tsp coriander powder
½ tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp red chili powder
½ tsp garam masala
¼ cup fresh cream
¼ cup water (adjust as needed)
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Paneer

In a mixing bowl, whisk yogurt until smooth.
Add gram flour, lemon juice, ginger-garlic paste, and all the spice powders.
Mix well and add paneer cubes, onions, and bell peppers. Coat them evenly.
Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes for better flavor absorption.

Step 2: Cook the Paneer Tikka on Tawa

Heat a tawa (griddle) on medium flame and grease it with oil.
Arrange the marinated paneer cubes along with veggies.
Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly charred.
Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Masala Gravy

In the same tawa, heat butter and add cumin seeds.
Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw aroma fades.
Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil releases from the sides.
Add coriander powder, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix well.
Pour water and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
Add fresh cream and mix for a rich texture.

Step 4: Combine Paneer Tikka with Gravy

Add the cooked paneer tikka into the gravy and mix gently.
Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavors.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and turn off the heat.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Paneer tikka masala is best enjoyed with naan, roti, or steamed rice. Serve hot and relish the homemade restaurant-style flavors.