Tandoori Paneer Tikka Masala: A Flavor-Packed Indian Classic

Tandoori Paneer Tikka Masala is the ultimate fusion of smoky, spiced paneer tikka and rich, creamy masala gravy. Imagine succulent, charred paneer cubes marinated in aromatic spices, grilled to perfection, then simmered in a velvety tomato-based curry. It’s a restaurant-style delight that’s surprisingly easy to recreate at home. If you're a fan of paneer curry recipes, this one is bound to become a favorite!

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Tandoori Paneer Tikka Masala

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Indian

Servings 4

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Grill pan or oven
• Skewers optional
• Blender for pureeing tomatoes
• Large pan or kadai

Ingredients

  

For the Paneer Tikka

• 250 g paneer cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup thick yogurt
• 1 tbsp gram flour besan
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp cumin powder
• 1/2 tsp chaat masala
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 tbsp mustard oil
• Salt to taste
• Skewers if grilling

For the Masala Gravy

• 2 tbsp butter or oil
• 1 onion finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes pureed
• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp kasuri methi dried fenugreek leaves
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp sugar optional
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

 

Preparing the Paneer Tikka

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, gram flour, ginger-garlic paste, spices, mustard oil, and lemon juice. Add paneer and coat well and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
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2. Thread paneer onto skewers if grilling.
3. Grill on a hot pan, in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 15 minutes, or air-fry until slightly charred.

Making the Masala Gravy

1. Heat butter in a pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden.
2. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
3. Add pureed tomatoes, chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Cook until oil separates.
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4. Stir in grilled paneer tikka, kasuri methi, garam masala, and cream. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

Pairings`

Serve this paneer tikka masala recipe with buttery naan, fluffy basmati rice, or jeera rice for a complete meal. Pair it with a refreshing cucumber raita or a tangy kachumber salad to balance the rich flavors.

FAQs

1. What type of paneer works best?

Use fresh, firm paneer for the best texture. Homemade or store-bought works, but ensure it's not too crumbly.

2. Can I make this without a grill?

Yes! You can pan-fry the marinated paneer on a stovetop or bake it in an oven for a similar smoky flavor.

3. How can I make it spicier?

Increase the red chili powder or add green chilies while sautéing the onions.

4. What other paneer dishes can I try?

If you love paneer, explore classics like Palak Paneer, Kadai Paneer, or Paneer Butter Masala for more delicious variations!