This Special Paneer Makhamali is comfort and indulgence in every bite. With its creamy texture, balanced spices, and royal presentation — it’s sure to steal the show at your next dinner party. Make it once, and you’ll crave it again and again!
🌟 IntroductionIf you're craving something indulgent, creamy, and luxurious — look no further than this Special Paneer Makhamali. Inspired by Mughlai flavors, “Makhamali” means buttery and velvety, and this dish lives up to its name! Juicy paneer cubes are simmered in a rich, aromatic, and silky gravy made from cashews, cream, and aromatic spices.Perfect for festive occasions, family dinners, or when you simply want to treat yourself to a royal North Indian dish.
Servings: 4
Cost: 100
Ingredients
For the Gravy:
- 1 tbsp butter or ghee
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 2 medium tomatoes chopped
- 8 –10 cashews soaked for 10 min
- 1- inch piece ginger
- 3 –4 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 green cardamoms
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ cup milk or water to blend
- Salt to taste
For Finishing:
- 200 –250g paneer cubed
- 2 tbsp fresh cream
- 1 tbsp kasuri methi dried fenugreek
- Fresh coriander for garnish
- A pinch of sugar optional
- ½ tsp kewra water or rose water optional, for royal aroma
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Heat oil and butter in a pan. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, and cardamoms.
- Add onions, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until onions turn golden.
- Add tomatoes and soaked cashews. Cook till tomatoes are soft.
- Let it cool slightly, then blend into a smooth paste using water or milk.
Step 2: Make the Gravy
- In the same pan, heat some oil. Add the ground paste back.
- Add turmeric, chili, coriander powder, and salt. Sauté till the gravy thickens and the oil separates.
- Add cream, kasuri methi (crushed), and a pinch of sugar for balance.
Step 3: Add Paneer
- Gently stir in the paneer cubes and simmer for 5–7 minutes on low heat.
- Finish with kewra or rose water for that authentic Mughlai touch.
- Garnish with coriander and a swirl of cream.
🍽 Best Served With:
- Soft naan, tandoori roti, or butter paratha
- Steamed jeera rice or pulao
- A side of salad or onion rings
🧠 Why You’ll Love This Dish:
✅ Rich, buttery, and satisfying
✅ Perfect for festive meals or special occasions
✅ Mughlai-style without any complicated steps
✅ Paneer absorbs the creamy flavors beautifully
✅ Crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults!
💡 Tips & Variations:
- Soak paneer in warm water for 10 mins before adding for extra softness
- Use almonds instead of cashews for a different nutty flavor
- For vegan version, use tofu, coconut cream, and vegan butter