Name: Paneer Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan (Single Serving)
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients: 150g paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 tbsp plain yogurt; 1/2 tbsp lemon juice; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp garam masala (plus 1/2 tsp for sauce); 1/4 tsp ground turmeric; 1/2 tsp Kashmiri chili powder (or paprika for milder); 1/2 tsp grated fresh ginger (plus 1/2 tsp for sauce); 1/2 tsp minced garlic (plus 1/2 tsp for sauce); Salt to taste; 1 tbsp vegetable oil (divided); 1/4 medium onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup tomato puree (or passata); 1/4 cup water; 2 tbsp heavy cream; 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (plus more for garnish); 1 store-bought naan (or homemade, see remix); 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 1 small garlic clove, finely minced; Sliced red onion or cucumber raita, for serving (optional)

Paneer Tikka Masala with Garlic Naan (Single Serving)

CrushedLemon1034

This Paneer Tikka Masala delivers a classic North Indian restaurant experience at home in just 30 minutes. Marinated paneer cubes are roasted for a smoky char, then simmered in a creamy, aromatic tomato sauce spiced with garam masala, ginger, and chili. Warming naan brushed with garlicky butter soaks up the rich, tangy flavors. Fresh cilantro and cool cucumber raita or crisp red onion balance the dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner craving bold, comforting flavors with satisfying texture contrasts.

Ingredients

Instructions

In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, 1/2 tsp garam masala, turmeric, chili powder, 1/2 tsp ginger, 1/2 tsp garlic, and salt. Add paneer cubes and toss to coat. Cover and marinate at least 15 minutes (up to 1 hour for deeper flavor).
Heat oven broiler or grill pan to high. Thread paneer cubes onto skewers (if using) and brush with 1/2 tbsp oil. Broil or grill 4-5 minutes per side, until charred and golden in spots. Set aside.
For the masala sauce, heat remaining 1/2 tbsp oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until soft and lightly golden, about 3 minutes.
Add remaining 1/2 tsp ginger and 1/2 tsp garlic; sauté 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in 1/2 tsp garam masala, cook 30 seconds, then add tomato puree and water. Simmer 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and glossy.
Add cream and chopped cilantro, season with salt, and simmer 1-2 minutes more. Add roasted paneer cubes; simmer gently 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.
Meanwhile, for garlic naan: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Melt butter and stir in minced garlic. Brush naan with garlic butter and warm in skillet 1-2 minutes per side until golden and aromatic.
Plate paneer tikka masala, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with garlic naan. Add cucumber raita or sliced red onion on the side, if desired.