Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

Paneer Butter Masala is a rich, creamy, and flavorful Indian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a luscious tomato-based gravy. It pairs perfectly with naan, roti, or rice.

Ingredients

For the Gravy:

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 1 tablespoon oil

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • 1 large onion (finely chopped)

  • 3 tomatoes (pureed)

  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

  • 1 green chili (chopped, optional)

  • 10-12 cashew nuts (soaked in warm water for 15 minutes)

  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder

  • 1 teaspoon garam masala

  • ½ teaspoon cumin powder

  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

  • Salt to taste

  • ½ cup fresh cream

  • ½ teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

  • 1 cup water (adjust as needed)

For the Paneer:

  • 200g paneer (cubed)

  • 1 teaspoon oil (for light frying, optional)

For Garnishing:

  • Fresh cilantro (chopped)

  • A drizzle of cream

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cashew Paste

  1. Blend the soaked cashews with a little water to make a smooth paste. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Gravy

  1. Heat butter and oil in a pan.

  2. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

  3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

  4. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chili, and sauté until fragrant.

  5. Stir in tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.

  6. Add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt.

  7. Mix in the cashew paste and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Paneer and Final Touches

  1. Add water and bring the gravy to a simmer.

  2. Add cubed paneer (lightly fried for extra flavor, if desired).

  3. Stir in fresh cream, kasuri methi, and garam masala.

  4. Simmer for 5 minutes, then turn off the heat.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve hot with naan, roti, or basmati rice.

  • Garnish with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of cream.

Pro Tips

✔ Use fresh paneer for the best texture. ✔ Simmer the gravy well for deep flavors. ✔ Adjust spice levels as per taste. ✔ Add a pinch of sugar to balance the tanginess.

Enjoy your delicious Paneer Butter Masala! 🧀🍛