ByButter Paneer Masala, also known as Paneer Makhani, is a popular vegetarian dish that originates from North Indian cuisine.
This delightful recipe combines succulent paneer (cottage cheese) cubes with a luscious, creamy tomato-based gravy, infused with aromatic spices and finished off with a generous amount of butter.
The result is a truly indulgent and flavorful dish that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide.
In this blog post, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this delectable recipe of Butter Paneer Masala, allowing you to experience the richness of Indian flavors in your own kitchen.
Table of Contents
Authentic Recipe of Butter Paneer Masala: A Delightful Dish
Equipment
- 1 Kadhai or Cauldron
- 1 Bowl
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Khunti or Long Spatula
- 1 Knife
- 1 Spoon/Spatula
- 1 Large skillet or non-stick frying pan
- 1 Blender
- 1 Serving dish
Ingredients
- 250 gms paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
- 3 large tomatoes
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 medium onion
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- Salt to taste
- Chopped coriander leaves for garnishing
Instructions
Prepare the Paneer
- Cut the paneer into small cubes or desired shapes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a non-stick pan or skillet.
- Add the paneer cubes to the pan and lightly fry them until they turn golden brown.
- Remove the paneer cubes from the pan and set them aside.
Prepare the Gravy
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in the same pan.
- Add the cumin seeds to the hot oil and let them splutter.
- Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Pour the tomato puree into the pan and cook it on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until the oil starts separating from the mixture.
Add the Spices
- Add the red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to the pan.
- Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse their flavors into the gravy.
Create the Creamy Gravy
- Lower the heat and add the fresh cream to the pan.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the gravy thickens.
Add Paneer and Garam Masala
- Gently add the fried paneer cubes to the gravy.
- Sprinkle garam masala on top and give it a gentle mix, ensuring the paneer cubes are coated with the creamy gravy.
Garnish and Serve
- Turn off the heat and garnish the butter paneer masala with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Transfer the prepared dish to a serving dish.
- Serve the butter paneer masala hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Video
Ingredients We Need to Make Butter Panner Masala
To prepare the flavorful butter paneer masala, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 250 grams of paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
- 3 large tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of garam masala
- 1/2 cup of fresh cream
- Salt to taste
- Chopped coriander leaves for garnishing
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Butter Panner Masala Recipe
Now, let’s dive into the recipe of butter paneer masala. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a lip-smacking dish that will leave everyone craving for more:
1. Prepare the Paneer
Begin by cutting the paneer into small cubes or desired shapes. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan and lightly fry the paneer cubes until they turn golden brown. This adds a delightful texture and enhances the taste of the paneer.
2. Prepare the Gravy
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in the same pan and add the cumin seeds. Once the cumin seeds start spluttering, add the finely chopped onions. Sauté the onions until they turn golden brown, releasing their sweet aroma and adding a savory base to the gravy.
3. Add the Tomato Puree
Next, add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears. Now, add the tomato puree and cook it on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until the oil starts separating from the mixture. This process helps develop the flavors and brings out the tangy sweetness of the tomatoes.
4. Add the Spices
Add the red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to the pan. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes. The combination of spices adds a perfect balance of heat and warmth to the dish, elevating its taste.
5. Create the Creamy Gravy
Lower the heat and add the fresh cream to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until the gravy thickens. The cream lends a luscious and creamy texture to the dish, making it irresistibly rich.
6. Add Paneer and Garam Masala
Gently add the fried paneer cubes to the gravy. Sprinkle garam masala on top and give it a gentle mix, ensuring the paneer cubes are coated with creamy gravy. The garam masala adds a final touch of aromatic spices, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
7. Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat and garnish the butter paneer masala with freshly chopped coriander leaves. The vibrant green coriander not only adds visual appeal but also provides a refreshing flavor. Serve the dish hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Tips to Serve the Delicious Butter Paneer Masala
When serving butter paneer masala, keep these tips in mind to elevate your dining experience:
- Pairing: Butter paneer masala pairs exceptionally well with freshly baked naan bread or soft and fluffy rotis. The warm and slightly chewy texture of the bread complements the creamy and flavorful gravy.
- Garnish: For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle a little fresh cream on top of the butter paneer masala before serving. It adds a visually appealing element and enhances the creaminess of the dish.
- Accompaniments: Create a well-rounded meal by serving the butter paneer masala with a side of fragrant basmati rice or jeera rice. The aromatic rice grains perfectly complement the rich flavors of the dish.
Recipe Variations of Butter Paneer Masala Recipe
While the classic butter paneer masala recipe is already a delight, here are a few variations you can explore:
- Healthy Twist: For a healthier version, substitute fresh cream with yogurt or coconut milk. This modification reduces the calorie content while adding a tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile to the dish.
- Green Peas Addition: Add a handful of green peas to the gravy for an extra burst of color and texture. The peas not only bring a vibrant green hue to the dish but also provide a sweet and earthy taste that complements the paneer.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor of your butter paneer masala. Try adding a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) or a sprinkle of cardamom powder to enhance the aroma and depth of the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use store-bought paneer for this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use store-bought paneer if you don’t have homemade paneer available. Just ensure that the paneer is fresh and soft to achieve the best results.
2. Can I make the gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the gravy and add the paneer cubes for a quick and convenient meal.
3. How can I make the dish spicier?
If you prefer a spicier butter paneer masala, you can increase the quantity of red chili powder or add a finely chopped green chili while sautéing the onions. Adjust the spice levels according to your personal preference.
4. Is there a vegan alternative for this dish?
Yes, there is a vegan alternative for butter paneer masala. Simply substitute the paneer with tofu cubes and follow the same recipe. The tofu will absorb the flavors of the creamy tomato gravy, providing a delicious plant-based alternative.
5. Can I freeze leftover butter paneer masala?
Absolutely! If you have any leftovers, you can freeze the butter paneer masala. Transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw and reheat it before serving.
6. What other ingredients can I add to enhance the flavors?
To enhance the flavors of your butter paneer masala, consider adding a pinch of Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) while simmering the gravy. This ingredient adds a delightful aroma and a slightly bitter-sweet taste that elevates the overall dish.
Conclusion
Butter Paneer Masala is an iconic dish that showcases the richness and diversity of Indian cuisine. The combination of soft paneer cubes immersed in a velvety tomato-based gravy is a treat for the senses.
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate the flavors of this classic dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.
So, why not bring the taste of India to your dinner table? Treat yourself and your loved ones to a restaurant-style experience with this recipe of Butter Paneer Masala.
You can also check our other paneer recipes :-
Soft Butter Naan Recipe At Home
How To Make Paneer At Home Easily?
Matar Paneer Recipe Dhaba Style in Hindi
Recipes By Anjali
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