Indian cuisine is known worldwide for its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and heart-warming comfort foods. Among the most loved vegetarian dishes, Shahi Paneer stands out as a true royal treasure.
Originating from the Mughal kitchens, this creamy and luxurious curry combines velvety paneer cubes with a luscious blend of nuts, cream, and mild spices. At Saagar, we proudly serve a restaurant-style version that brings a true taste of India to Phuket.
In this article, we will share a detailed shahi paneer recipe that reflects the authentic style we follow in our kitchen — refined with a modern approach while keeping traditional flavors intact. Whether you want to try it at home or can’t wait to dine at Saagar, this guide is the perfect place to begin your flavorful journey.
What Makes Shahi Paneer Special?
The word “Shahi” translates to royal. This dish has a creamy, slightly sweet, and mildly spiced gravy, making it different from many other paneer dishes that rely heavily on heat or tanginess. Its rich texture comes from a combination of cashews, onions, tomatoes, and fresh cream — a signature that makes paneer shahi paneer ideal for both festive occasions and everyday indulgence.
At Saagar, our chefs balance the richness with the perfect blend of spices to ensure every bite feels smooth, aromatic, and unforgettable.
Ingredients Used in Shahi Paneer Recipe
Below are the core ingredients inspired by our kitchen techniques:
- Fresh paneer – soft and perfectly cut cubes
- Onion paste – sautéed to release sweetness
- Tomato puree – adds freshness and color
- Cashew paste – creates that royal creamy base
- Ginger & garlic – aromatic foundation
- Ghee or oil – traditional cooking medium
- Mild spices like cardamom, bay leaf & cinnamon
- Fresh cream – for a silky finish
- Saffron (optional) – a regal addition for aroma
- Salt & sugar – to balance flavors
These elements come together to create the unforgettable shahi paneer dining experience our guests love.
How We Make Shahi Paneer at Saagar – Restaurant Style
Many people ask for a shahi paneer restaurant style preparation that captures the depth and richness they taste in Indian restaurants. Here’s a simplified version inspired by our chef’s recipe:
Step-by-step Preparation
- Prepare the Base
Heat ghee in a pan, add bay leaf and cardamom. Let the aroma release. - Cook the Onions
Add finely chopped or pureed onions. Cook until golden and soft. - Add Aromatics
Ginger-garlic paste goes next — sauté until the raw smell fades. - Tomato and Spice Fusion
Add tomato puree along with turmeric and red chili for color. Let it cook until oils separate. - Royal Cashew Cream
Blend soaked cashews into a smooth paste and add to the pan. Stir well to thicken the gravy. - Paneer Time
Add soft paneer cubes and gently fold them into the gravy so they absorb the flavors. - Finishing Touch
Add fresh cream and a pinch of saffron. Simmer lightly for a rich, silky texture. - Ready to Serve
Garnish with nuts or herbs and serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
By following this process, anyone can learn how to make a shahi paneer that tastes luxurious and satisfying.
Why Try Shahi Paneer at Saagar?
While it is always exciting to cook at home, nothing beats dining at a place where skilled chefs bring out the best version of a dish. At Saagar, our team carefully selects every ingredient. The paneer is fresh and soft, the spices are finely balanced, and the presentation adds to the royal experience.
Whether you’re vegetarian, exploring Indian flavors, or simply craving something comforting and creamy — this dish remains one of our most popular menu highlights.
Guests have often told us that after trying shahi paneer recipe at home, they still return to Saagar for that perfect restaurant-style taste they can’t replicate easily. And we love welcoming them back!
FAQs
Q1: What is Shahi Paneer?
It is a royal Indian curry made with soft paneer cubes cooked in a creamy cashew- and onion-based gravy with mild spices.
Q2: How to make Shahi Paneer?
You sauté onions, cook tomatoes, add cashew paste, mix in spices, and finish with paneer and cream — resulting in a smooth, flavorful curry.
Q3: How to make a Shahi Paneer easily at home?
Follow the step-by-step process shared above using fresh ingredients and avoid overheating the paneer to keep it soft.
Q4: How can we make Shahi Paneer restaurant style?
Focus on creaminess, slow cooking, and premium spices. Cashew paste and cream play a key role in restaurant-style richness.
Q5: How make to Shahi Paneer more aromatic?
Add mild whole spices, saffron, and a touch of cardamom to elevate the fragrance and taste.