If you’re craving a rich, regal dish that’s bursting with flavor and colorful veggies, then the Shahi Paneer Korma with Vegetables Recipe is your perfect match. This royal curry combines creamy paneer cubes and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a luscious, nutty gravy that is both fragrant and satisfying. It’s a dish that feels like a special celebration on your plate, yet is surprisingly easy to prepare at home. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or impressing friends, this recipe is bound to become a beloved staple.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white pot with four stages of cooking vegetable stew on a white marbled surface. In the first stage, there are two dark bay leaves floating in bubbling melted butter, creating a light yellow and frothy base. The second stage shows a layer of finely chopped red and green bell peppers spread on top of sautéed onions, adding bright red and green colors over a soft, golden-brown onion base. In the third stage, there is a mix of green peas, diced orange carrots, and white cauliflower florets layered evenly over the previous peppers and onions, creating a colorful and textured vegetable mix. The last stage reveals a thick, chunky red tomato sauce spread on top of the cooked mixed vegetables in the pot, blending the vibrant vegetables under the deep red sauce. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for the Shahi Paneer Korma with Vegetables Recipe are simple yet thoughtfully chosen to create a balance of aroma, texture, and richness. Each element plays a significant role in making this dish vibrant and deeply satisfying.

Oil (tablespoons): Essential for sautéing and bringing out the flavors of the spices.
Unsalted butter or ghee (1 tablespoon): Adds a luscious, buttery layer to the gravy’s texture.
Cumin seeds (1 teaspoon): Toasted for a nutty, earthy undertone right at the start.
Bay leaf (1): Introduces subtle herbal notes to the curry.
Medium onion, finely chopped (1): Builds the flavorful base with its sweetness when cooked down.
Ginger+garlic paste (1½ teaspoon): Gives a warm, spicy depth and aroma.
Small red bell pepper, chopped (1): Provides a pop of sweetness and color contrast.
Small yellow bell pepper, chopped (1): Adds bright color and crunchy texture to the mix.
Mix vegetables (2 cups): Choose your favorites like peas, carrots, beans; they add freshness and nutrition.
Tomato puree (1 cup): Offers tanginess and thickens the sauce naturally.
Turmeric (¼ teaspoon): Colorful and vibrant, also promotes warmth and health benefits.
Kashmiri red chili powder (1 teaspoon): Brings mild heat and a gorgeous red hue.
Ground coriander (1 teaspoon): Enhances earthiness with its citrusy flavors.
Ground cumin (¼ teaspoon): Adds another layer of smoky, savory taste.
Salt (to taste): Balances all the elements perfectly.
Water (½ cup, plus more if needed): Controls the consistency of the gravy.
Almond butter or ground almonds (1 tablespoon): The secret to the creamy, rich texture that makes this dish “Shahi.”
Paneer, cubed (1 cup): Soft, creamy cheese that soaks up all the beautiful flavors.
Cream (3 tablespoons): Finishes the curry with indulgent silkiness.
Garam masala (1 teaspoon): The aromatic spice blend lifting the entire dish.
Cilantro, finely chopped (3 tablespoons): Fresh green garnish adding brightness and color.

How to Make Shahi Paneer Korma with Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Base

Start by warming oil and ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Toss in cumin seeds and the bay leaf. As the cumin seeds sizzle and release their fragrance, you’ll know your curry is off to a fantastic start.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Aromatics

Add the finely chopped onions and cook them gently until they turn translucent and golden. Stir in the ginger and garlic paste, cooking until the raw smells disappear, creating a rich aromatic base that’s impossible to resist.

Step 3: Cook the Bell Peppers and Vegetables

Next, toss in the chopped red and yellow bell peppers along with your choice of mixed vegetables. Let them soften slightly, soaking in the onion and spice base while keeping a bit of their welcome crunch.

Step 4: Add Spices and Tomato Puree

Sprinkle the turmeric, Kashmiri red chili powder, ground coriander, and cumin, stirring well to coat every bit of veggie with these fragrant spices. Pour in the tomato puree, stirring to combine and simmer gently to thicken the mixture.

Step 5: Simmer with Almonds and Water

Stir in almond butter or ground almonds to create the signature creamy texture of this korma. Add water a little at a time to reach your desired gravy consistency, then let everything meld together over a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Incorporate Paneer and Cream

Gently fold in the cubed paneer and allow it to warm through and absorb the delicious gravy flavors. Finish by stirring in the cream for unmatched creaminess and luxuriously smooth mouthfeel.

Step 7: Add Garam Masala and Cilantro

Sprinkle garam masala and freshly chopped cilantro on top. Give it a gentle mix to spread the final burst of aromatic and fresh notes right before serving.

How to Serve Shahi Paneer Korma with Vegetables Recipe

A blue bowl filled with orange curry containing chunks of paneer, shrimp, and red bell peppers, topped with green cilantro leaves; a silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. To the top right of the bowl is a white bowl of steamed white rice garnished with small green herbs. To the left of the curry bowl lies a piece of flatbread with brown toasted spots and herbs on top. The background is a dark surface with some green herbs scattered and a light blue textured cloth draped on the right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and taste, add a drizzle of cream or a sprinkle of toasted almond slivers on top. Fresh cilantro leaves not only brighten the dish visually but also amplify the fresh flavors.

Side Dishes

This korma pairs wonderfully with warm, fluffy naan, buttery parathas, or fragrant basmati rice. You want something that can soak up that dreamy gravy perfectly and balance the richness with subtle textures.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress your guests by serving the Shahi Paneer Korma with Vegetables Recipe in small individual bowls garnished with pomegranate seeds for a burst of tartness and color. Or offer it family-style with a vibrant side salad for a colorful, festive spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it tastier the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this korma by placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to one month. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain texture and freshness.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove or microwave on medium power, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the gravy if it thickens too much. Stir frequently for even heating and to keep the paneer tender.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in the Shahi Paneer Korma with Vegetables Recipe?

Absolutely! Vegetables like peas, carrots, cauliflower, and beans work great. Feel free to customize based on what you have or prefer for texture and flavor.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute paneer with tofu and use coconut cream instead of dairy cream to keep it creamy while making it vegan-friendly.

How spicy is the Shahi Paneer Korma with Vegetables Recipe?

This dish has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to the Kashmiri chili powder, which is more about color and warmth than heat, so it’s suitable for most palates.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Definitely! The gravy can be made a day ahead and refrigerated. Add the paneer and cream fresh when you’re ready to serve to keep everything vibrant and creamy.

What’s the best way to crumble paneer if I don’t want cubes?

You can crumble paneer gently with your hands or grate it for a different texture that blends more intimately with the sauce.

Final Thoughts

The Shahi Paneer Korma with Vegetables Recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a heartwarming experience you can easily bring to your kitchen. With its delightfully creamy texture, beautifully balanced spices, and fresh vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite you’ll want to share time and again. Give it a try and enjoy every delicious bite!