If you’re a fan of rich, creamy, and flavorful curries, then paneer butter masala is a dish you must try. This popular Indian recipe is loved by many for its smooth texture and the perfect combination of spices and cream.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, how to make paneer butter masala will be easy and to make this delightful dish at home is simpler than you think. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to make paneer butter masala recipe at home.
What is Paneer Butter Masala?
Paneer butter masala, also known as paneer makhani, is a delicious vegetarian curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy. This dish is a staple at Indian restaurants, and its popularity is due to its mild spiciness and smooth, buttery flavor.
The key ingredients in this recipe include paneer, butter, cream, tomatoes, and a mix of aromatic spices that come together to create a mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients for Paneer Butter Masala Recipe
Here are the ingredients you will need for this flavorful paneer butter masala recipe:
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chilies (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 1 cup fresh cream
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity)
For the Paneer:
- 250 grams paneer (cubed)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying the paneer)
How To Make Paneer Butter Masala
Follow these steps to make this creamy and delicious paneer butter masala at home:
Step 1: Fry the Paneer
Start by frying the paneer cubes to give them a golden-brown texture. Heat a pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter has melted, add the paneer cubes and fry them until they are lightly browned on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the paneer and adds a slightly crispy texture. Set the fried paneer aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
- Sauté the Onions: In the same pan, add a little more butter if necessary. Sauté the finely chopped onions until they become soft and golden brown. This will form the base of your gravy.
- Add Ginger-Garlic Paste:
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté it for 1-2 minutes until it becomes aromatic.
- Add the Spices: Now, add red chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and turmeric powder. Sauté the spice mixture for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Tomato Puree: Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil starts separating from the gravy.
- Add Butter and Cream: Stir in the butter and fresh cream. This is what makes paneer butter masala so rich and creamy. Let it cook for a couple of minutes.
- Kasuri Methi: Crush the kasuri methi between your palms and add it to the gravy. This adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Combine the Paneer with the Gravy
- Add the Paneer: Gently add the fried paneer cubes into the gravy. Let the paneer cook in the sauce for 5 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
- Adjust Consistency: If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Garnish the dish with a drizzle of fresh cream and some finely chopped cilantro (coriander leaves).
- Serve: Serve your delicious paneer butter masala with naan, roti, or steamed rice. Enjoy the rich and creamy goodness!
If you’re a fan of rich, creamy, and flavorful curries, then paneer butter masala is a dish you must try. This popular Indian recipe is loved by many for its smooth texture and the perfect combination of spices and cream.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, making this delightful dish at home is simpler than you think. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to make paneer butter masala recipe at home.
Tips for How To Make Paneer Butter Masala With Best Taste
- Use Fresh Paneer: The quality of paneer is crucial. Always use fresh, soft paneer for the best texture. If you’re using store-bought paneer, soak it in warm water for 15 minutes before adding it to the dish.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Depending on your taste, you can increase or decrease the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder to adjust the spice level.
- Don’t Skip the Cream: The cream is what makes the dish indulgent. Use fresh cream to get that smooth, velvety texture.
- Slow Cooking: Allow the gravy to cook on low heat to bring out the best flavors. High heat can cause the cream to curdle, so be patient!
Variations of Paneer Butter Masala
While the classic paneer butter masala is delightful on its own, here are some variations you can try to add your own twist to the dish:
- Paneer Tikka Butter Masala: Marinate the paneer cubes with yogurt and spices, grill or sauté them, and then add them to the gravy. This gives a smoky flavor to the dish.
- Vegan Paneer Butter Masala: If you’re vegan, replace paneer with tofu or a plant-based protein and use coconut cream or almond milk instead of dairy cream.
- Add Vegetables: You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to make the dish more wholesome.
Health Benefits of Paneer Butter Masala
Although paneer butter masala is rich and creamy, it offers some health benefits. Paneer is an excellent source of protein, making it an ideal choice for vegetarians. It also provides calcium and essential vitamins for bone health. However, due to the rich nature of the dish, it’s best to enjoy it in moderation.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make a restaurant-style paneer butter masala at home, it’s time to get cooking! This flavorful and creamy curry will surely impress your family and friends.
Whether you’re hosting a special dinner or simply craving something indulgent, this paneer butter masala recipe is sure to hit the spot. Serve it with your favorite flatbread or rice, and enjoy the rich, buttery goodness!