Restaurant Style Paneer Tikka Masala Gravy

Paneer Tikka Masala is a rich and flavorful vegetarian curry made with grilled paneer cubes simmered in a creamy tomato-based sauce. This recipe combines the smoky flavors of the grilled paneer with a rich and luscious spiced tomato sauce. Perfect for pairing with naan or rice, it's a must-try for anyone looking to explore Indian cuisine.

Paneer Tikka Masala is north Indian dish and a vegetarian version of Chicken Tikka Masala. The dish consists of marinated bite-sized cubes sauteed to be charred – preferably on coals – and is then cooked in a spiced tomato and cream-based sauce. This dish has become popular in Indian restaurants and homes, much loved for it’s rich taste and fulfilling texture.

• 0.5 Lbs Paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (thick, not watery)
• 2 tablespoons besan (gram flour)
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (for color, not heat)
• 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (crushed dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (juice of ½ lemon)
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil (or oil of choice)

• 1 medium red onion, cut into 1-inch cubes, petals separated
• 1 small green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 small red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 2 tablespoons butter (divided use)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 1 large white onion, roughly chopped
• 3 to 4 large garlic cloves
• 1-inch ginger piece
• 3 large tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 3/4teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (divided, for color)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup water (or more, as needed for consistency)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons heavy cream (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (for garnish)