Paneer Butter Masala Recipe: Paneer Butter Masala is a classic North Indian dish featuring soft paneer cubes in a rich, creamy, and flavorful tomato-based gravy. It’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner. This recipe is loved for its velvety texture, mild spice, and aromatic flavors, making it a popular choice in Indian restaurants and homes alike.
Ingredients for Paneer Butter Masala Recipe
To prepare a mouth-watering Paneer Butter Masala Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Paneer – 200 grams (cubed)
- Butter – 2 tbsp (for rich flavor)
- Oil – 1 tbsp (to balance the butter)
- Onions – 2 medium-sized, finely chopped
- Tomatoes – 3 medium-sized, pureed
- Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tbsp
- Cashews – 10-12 (soaked and ground into a paste)
- Cream – 3-4 tbsp (for creaminess)
- Kasuri methi – 1 tsp (for that authentic aroma)
- Red chili powder – 1 tsp (for heat)
- Turmeric powder – 1/4 tsp
- Coriander powder – 1 tsp
- Garam masala – 1/2 tsp
- Salt – to taste
- Sugar – 1 tsp (optional, balances acidity)
- Water – as needed
Preparation for Paneer Butter Masala Recipe
Before you start cooking the Paneer Butter Masala, let’s prepare a few key elements:
- Paneer Cubes: Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes and keep them aside.
- Cashew Paste: Soak cashews in warm water for 15-20 minutes, then blend into a smooth paste.
- Tomato Puree: Blend fresh tomatoes into a puree.
These small prep steps make the process smoother when cooking.
How to Make Paneer Butter Masala
Now, let’s walk through the steps of making this delicious Paneer Butter Masala Recipe:
1. Sauté the Onions and Ginger-Garlic Paste
- Heat 1 tbsp oil and 2 tbsp butter in a pan on medium heat.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Now, add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears (about 2 minutes).
2. Prepare the Gravy
- Add tomato puree to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes until the oil starts to separate.
- Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook the spices on low flame until well combined.
3. Add Cashew Paste
- Once the spices are well-cooked, add the cashew paste and cook for another 3-4 minutes. This will give the gravy a creamy texture.
4. Add Paneer Cubes
- Add the cubed paneer to the gravy and mix gently so the paneer is well-coated.
- Add a little water to adjust the gravy consistency to your liking, and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes on low flame.
5. Final Touches
- Crush kasuri methi between your palms and sprinkle it into the gravy for that authentic flavor.
- Add garam masala and stir well.
- Finish with fresh cream, stirring gently for a rich, smooth texture.
Read more: Shahi Paneer Recipe In Hindi
Serving Suggestions for Paneer Butter Masala
Paneer Butter Masala tastes best when served hot. You can pair it with:
- Naan or Butter Naan
- Jeera Rice or plain Basmati Rice
- Chapati or Paratha
For a restaurant-style meal at home, add a side of salad and pickle.
Tips for Making the Perfect Paneer Butter Masala
To make your Paneer Butter Masala Recipe even better, follow these tips:
- Use fresh paneer for the softest and most flavorful result. You can also lightly sauté the paneer cubes in butter before adding them to the gravy.
- Cream adds richness to the dish, but if you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream or replace it with milk.
- Adjust spices to your taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the quantity of red chili powder.
- Kasuri methi is key to giving this dish its signature flavor. Make sure to add it towards the end for maximum aroma.
Paneer Butter Masala Variations
Looking to tweak the classic Paneer Butter Masala Recipe? Here are some variations:
- Vegan Option: Substitute paneer with tofu and cream with coconut cream for a delicious vegan version.
- Healthier Option: Use less butter and cream, and add more cashew paste to maintain creaminess without extra fat.
- Spicy Paneer Butter Masala: For a spicier version, add green chilies or increase the amount of red chili powder.
Conclusion
Paneer Butter Masala is a rich and creamy dish that brings comfort and indulgence to the table. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a festive meal, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today, and enjoy restaurant-style flavors right in the comfort of your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze Paneer Butter Masala?
Yes, you can freeze the Paneer Butter Masala for up to a month. However, for the best texture, freeze the gravy without the paneer and add fresh paneer when reheating.
2. Can I use store-bought tomato puree?
Yes, store-bought tomato puree can be used. However, fresh tomatoes will give you a more authentic taste and a richer flavor.
3. Is Paneer Butter Masala gluten-free?
Yes, this Paneer Butter Masala Recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any wheat-based ingredients.
Read more: Palak Paneer Recipe in Hindi
