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Homemade Paneer Tikka Masala photo

Paneer Tikka Masala

This Paneer Tikka Masala is bursting with flavor! Creamy, spiced, and perfect for any occasion, this dish is a vegetarian delight!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Cutting Board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Large Skillet or Pan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade:

  • 12 ounces paneer cut into ¾-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic (about 1 large clove)
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 5 tablespoons 2% plain Greek yogurt

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil or canola oil
  • 1 large red bell pepper cored and thinly sliced
  • ½ medium head cauliflower cut into florets
  • 1 medium yellow onion very finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger minced
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic (about 3 garlic cloves)
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 ½ teaspoons garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounces)
  • 1 package frozen peas (10 ounces)
  • ½ cup 2% plain Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro thoroughly chopped

For Serving:

  • Homemade naan or prepared brown rice

Instructions
 

Instructions:

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the paneer cubes, minced ginger, minced garlic, ground coriander, garam masala, ground cumin, kosher salt, and 5 tablespoons of Greek yogurt. Mix well until the paneer is fully coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
  • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of coconut oil over medium heat. Add the sliced red bell pepper, cauliflower florets, and finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the marinated paneer along with any leftover marinade. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the paneer is golden brown on all sides. Remove the paneer from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of coconut oil if needed. Add the minced ginger and garlic, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the kosher salt, black pepper, tomato paste, garam masala, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom.
  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the frozen peas. Let the sauce cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
  • Add the sautéed vegetables and cooked paneer to the sauce. Stir gently to coat the paneer and vegetables in the tomato sauce. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in ½ cup of Greek yogurt for creaminess. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve hot with homemade naan or prepared brown rice for a scrumptious meal!

Notes

  • Use fresh paneer for the best flavor and texture.
  • Customize the vegetables to your preference, like zucchini or spinach.
  • This dish freezes well; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Keyword Comfort Food, Spicy, Vegetarian