Paneer Butter Masala Recipe: How to make Paneer Butter Masala?

Paneer Butter Masala is a classic Indian dish that beautifully combines the creamy richness of butter and the aromatic flavors of spices with soft, succulent paneer (Indian cottage cheese). This delightful vegetarian curry is characterized by its velvety smooth tomato-based gravy, which is subtly spiced, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess. What makes Paneer Butter Masala special is not only its comforting flavors but also its beautiful presentation—deep red in color, garnished with fresh cream and coriander. Perfect for special occasions or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish pairs excellently with naan, roti, or steamed rice, making it a versatile favorite among food lovers of all ages.

Ingredients

To make Paneer Butter Masala, gather the following ingredients:

For the Gravy:

• Paneer: 250 grams, cut into cubes
• Butter: 3 tablespoons (preferably unsalted)
• Oil: 1 tablespoon (helps prevent the butter from burning)
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon
• Tomatoes: 2 large, pureed (or use 1 cup canned tomato puree)
• Cashew Nuts: 10-12, soaked in warm water for 15 minutes and blended into a paste
• Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust based on heat preference)
• Turmeric Powder: ½ teaspoon
• Garam Masala: 1 teaspoon
• Coriander Powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: to taste
• Sugar: 1 teaspoon (to balance acidity)
• Fresh Cream: 2 tablespoons (plus extra for garnishing)
• Fresh Coriander: for garnishing, chopped

Optional Ingredients:

• Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves): 1 teaspoon, crushed (optional, but adds depth)
• Green Chili: 1 slit (for added heat)

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare a delicious Paneer Butter Masala in under 30 minutes:

Step 1: Prepare and Soak Cashews

1. Soak Cashews: Start by soaking the cashew nuts in warm water for about 15 minutes. Once they are softened, blend them into a smooth paste using a little water if necessary. This will add a rich creaminess to the gravy.

Step 2: Cook the Gravy Base

2. Heat Butter and Oil: In a large pan or skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. The oil helps to stabilize the butter and prevent it from burning.
3. Sauté Onions: Once the butter has melted and begins to bubble, add the finely chopped onions. Sauté until they turn golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
4. Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan, stirring continuously for a minute until the raw smell dissipates.
5. Incorporate Tomato Puree: Slowly add the pureed tomatoes to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the mixture to cook down until the oil separates from the gravy.

Step 3: Spice It Up

6. Add Spices and Cashew Paste: Once the tomato mixture is cooked through and thick, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes. Next, add the cashew paste and sugar, stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 4 minutes until everything is well incorporated.
7. Finish with Cream and Garam Masala: Lower the heat and add the fresh cream, followed by the garam masala. Mix well and cook for 1-2 minutes. If using, crush the kasuri methi between your palms and add it to the gravy for an herbaceous aroma and flavor.

Step 4: Add Paneer

8. Introduce Paneer: Finally, gently add the cubed paneer to the gravy. Stir carefully to coat the paneer without breaking it. Let it simmer for another 3-4 minutes on low heat, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

9. Garnishing: Before serving, drizzle a bit of fresh cream on top and garnish with chopped fresh coriander. If you want to add a kick, you can also add a slit green chili.

Serving Suggestions

Paneer Butter Masala is best served hot. Here are some ideas for pairing and serving:

• Accompaniments: Serve this dish with warm naan, paratha, or roti. It also pairs beautifully with basmati rice or jeera rice (cumin rice).
• Side Dishes: Complement the meal with a side of cucumber raita, a fresh salad, or pickles to enhance the flavors.
• Beverages: Pair your meal with a glass of refreshing lassi (a yogurt-based drink), a sweet mango drink, or plain water infused with mint for a cooling effect.

Nutritional Information

Paneer Butter Masala not only serves as a comforting and delicious meal option, but it also provides a variety of nutritional benefits:

• Protein-Rich: Paneer is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair, making this dish a great option for vegetarians and vegans alike.
• Vitamins and Minerals: The inclusion of tomatoes and spices contributes essential vitamins like Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and various antioxidants that help in promoting overall health.
• Healthy Fats: The combination of butter and cream provides necessary fats for energy, while also making the dish rich and creamy. It’s important to enjoy this dish in moderation, given its high-calorie content due to these ingredients.

Health Tips

1. Substitution Tip: For a healthier version, you can substitute some of the butter and cream with low-fat yogurt or coconut milk. This will lower the overall calorie count while still maintaining a creamy texture.
2. Adding Vegetables: You can also sneak in some vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance the nutritional profile. Just add them along with the paneer and cook till tender.
3. Controlling Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of red chili powder and skip the green chili. You can also increase the sugar slightly to balance flavors according to your taste.

Conclusion

Paneer Butter Masala is a delightful journey through Indian cuisine—a dish that promises comforting flavors and rich textures, taking less than 30 minutes to prepare. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying. It’s perfect for special occasions or a casual weeknight dinner and is sure to impress with its sumptuous taste. Enjoy this delectable dish with your loved ones, and don’t hesitate to explore variations to make it your own!