Paneer Tikka Masala Bowls
Paneer holds its shape in a simmering sauce far better than a softer cheese would, which is what makes it work so well in a dish like tikka masala. This is my vegetarian take on the same tomato and coconut milk sauce I use with chicken.
Searing the paneer before it goes into the sauce gives it a slight golden crust that holds up even after simmering. The sauce itself is nearly identical to my chicken tikka masala, just built around a different protein entirely.
Paneer doesn't melt the way other cheeses would, so it keeps its cube shape through the whole cooking process and any reheating afterward. This is one of the more filling vegetarian dishes I make, thanks to how dense paneer is.
The recipe card has the full ingredient breakdown and simmer time for all ten portions. Let everything cool before sealing the containers, then refrigerate what you'll eat within four days and freeze the rest. This paneer tikka masala is a good vegetarian alternative to my chicken version.
Nutrition note: This is general food information, not individualized medical or nutrition advice.
Paneer Tikka Masala Bowls
YIELD
10 portions
ESTIMATED NUTRITION
645 calories • 34g protein • 45g carbs • 39g fat per portion
What I really like about this recipe is that paneer holds its shape in the sauce the way chicken would, without any meat at all.
Ingredients
• 2 1/2 lb paneer, cubed
• 2 cans crushed tomatoes
• 1 1/2 cans light coconut milk
• 2 onions, diced
• 7 1/2 cups cooked basmati rice
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp garam masala and curry powder
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
Directions
1. Sear the paneer cubes in olive oil until golden on most sides; set aside.
2. Cook the onion and garlic until softened, then add the spices, tomatoes, and coconut milk; simmer 15 minutes.
3. Return the paneer to the sauce and simmer another 5 minutes.
4. Let the food cool briefly, then divide it evenly among 10 airtight meal-prep containers with rice.
Meal-prep notes: Refrigerate promptly and use refrigerated portions within 3–4 days; freeze any portions you will not eat in that window. Reheat hot meals until steaming. Nutrition is estimated per portion.
