Paneer Lazeez Masala – A Creamy North Indian Delight with a Spicy Twist
Introduction:
Move over butter paneer — there’s a new favorite in town. Paneer Lazeez Masala is a rich, aromatic, and lesser-known paneer curry that blends creamy tomato-cashew gravy with spicy North Indian masalas. Perfect for lunch, dinner parties, or festive occasions, this dish strikes the ideal balance between restaurant-style indulgence and home-style warmth.
It’s called “Lazeez” for a reason — lazeez means “delicious” in Urdu, and this dish absolutely lives up to the name.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
For the Gravy Base:
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 8–10 cashews (soaked)
- 1 green chili (optional)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
Spices:
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- ½ tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp red chili powder
- Salt to taste
For Finishing:
- 2 tbsp cream or malai
- 1 tsp kasuri methi (dry fenugreek)
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Gravy Paste
In a pan, sauté onions, tomatoes, cashews, and green chili in 1 tbsp oil until soft. Cool and blend to a smooth paste.
2. Cook the Masala
In the same pan, add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for 1 minute. Add the blended paste and all dry spices. Cook on medium flame until oil separates.
3. Add Paneer & Simmer
Add paneer cubes, ½ cup water, and let it simmer for 5–6 minutes. Add cream and crushed kasuri methi. Stir gently.
4. Garnish & Serve
Finish with fresh coriander. Serve hot with naan, roti, or jeera rice.
Why Try This Recipe?
- Less Common, More Flavor – A hidden gem compared to butter paneer
- Creamy But Spicy – Hits the sweet spot between richness and heat
- Restaurant-Style at Home – No need for artificial colors or additives
- Versatile Pairing – Goes well with Indian bread, pulao, or even paratha
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with garlic naan or laccha paratha
- Add a side of boondi raita
- Top with a swirl of cream and chopped nuts for a party look
