Paneer

Tikka Masala with Restaurant Flavours at Home

Quick Summary

Paneer Tikka Masala is a rich and delicious North Indian dish where marinated paneer is grilled and simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato gravy. This article looks at how to make it at home with restaurant-style flavour, common mistakes to avoid, and the best pairings that enhance the dish beyond a simple curry. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a regular weekend dinner.  

Deep Dive

Paneer Tikka Masala is a dish that perfectly balances smokiness and creaminess, making it one of the most loved paneer curries worldwide. Its origins lie in the post-independence era of India, inspired by the rise of creamy gravies like butter chicken. While butter chicken used roasted chicken, vegetarians sought an equivalent, and the answer was paneer marinated in yoghurt and spices and grilled until charred. The paneer is then folded into a thick, tomato-based gravy rich with cream, butter, and aromatic spices.

This dish is a showcase of technique: grilling the paneer to bring out smokiness while ensuring the gravy has depth from slow-simmered tomatoes, garlic, and spices. Whether served in an Indian dhaba or a fine-dining restaurant, Paneer Tikka Masala has become synonymous with satisfaction. At home, it captures the same essence when done carefully, giving plant-based protein the star treatment it deserves. Deep dive below to know how to get that exact flavour of the restaurant at home.

For the paneer tikka

• 250 g paneer, cut into cubes

• ½ cup thick yoghurt

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 1 tsp red chilli powder

• ½ tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp oil

• Salt, to taste

For the gravy

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3–4 tomatoes, pureed

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1–2 green chillies, slit

• 1 tsp red chilli powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• ½ cup fresh cream

• Fresh coriander, for garnish

• Salt, to taste

Method

Here’s a step-by-step guide that will give you the restaurant-style paneer tikka masala at home. 

Step 1: Marinate the Paneer

Whisk yoghurt with ginger-garlic paste, lemon juice, and spices. Add paneer cubes, coat well, and set aside for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavours.

Step 2: Grill the Paneer

Heat a grill pan or tawa with a little oil. Cook the marinated paneer until charred at the edges. This step gives the dish its signature smoky flavour. Set it aside till you prepare the gravy. 

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy Base

Heat oil and butter in a pan. Add cumin seeds and sauté onions until golden. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chillies. Add pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates.

Step 4: Build the Flavours

Add chilli powder, turmeric, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well and let it cook on low heat to bring out the depth of spices.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Paneer

Add garam masala and cream, stirring until the gravy is smooth. Finally, fold in the grilled paneer tikka pieces and simmer for 5 minutes so the flavours meld together. Garnish with coriander and a drizzle of cream.

Mistakes to Avoid while making Paneer Tikka Masala

• Paneer absorbs flavour best when marinated, so do not miss marinating.

• Paneer turns rubbery if cooked too long; grill just until golden.

• Balance richness with spice. Excess cream can dull the flavour.

• The gravy becomes tangy if the tomatoes are not cooked until the oil separates.

Best Pairings for Paneer Tikka Masala

• Soft, buttery naan perfectly soaks up the creamy gravy.

• Jeera rice adds fragrance and lightness to the enriching paneer tikka masala.

• Crisp, flaky layers of parathas complement the dish’s richness.

• Tandoori Roti: Slightly chewy and smoky tandoori roti matches the grilled paneer’s flavour.

Paneer Tikka Masala is more than just a curry; it’s a celebration of smoky, creamy, and spiced flavours brought together in one dish. With careful marination, proper grilling, and a slow-simmered gravy, it can easily rival restaurant versions. Whether paired with naan or rice, this recipe ensures every meal feels like a feast at home!