Prepare Lip-Smacking Paneer Butter Masala In Just 4 Easy Steps

Paneer Butter Masala is a rich and indulgent Indian dish that features succulent cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a creamy, aromatic tomato-based gravy. This popular North Indian delicacy is known for its velvety texture and balanced flavors, making it a favorite at both home dinners and Indian restaurants.

Paneer Butter Masala is a popular and delicious Indian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a rich, creamy tomato-based sauce. Here's a classic recipe for you to try:

1. Ingredients

For the Paneer:

- 250 grams paneer (cubed)

- 1 tablespoon oil or ghee

For the Masala Sauce:

- 2 tablespoons butter

- 1 tablespoon oil

- 1 large onion (finely chopped)

- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste

- 2 large tomatoes (pureed)

- 1 green chili (finely chopped, optional)

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1 teaspoon garam masala

- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 cup heavy cream

- 1/4 cup milk (optional, for thinning the gravy)

- Salt to taste

- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

- 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves, optional)

2. Instructions

Step 1- Prepare the Paneer:

- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.

- Add the paneer cubes and lightly fry them until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2- Make the Masala Sauce:

- In the same pan, add butter and oil. Heat until the butter melts.

- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

- Add the finely chopped onions and saut until they turn golden brown.

- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chili, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

- Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture, about 5-7 minutes.

- Add coriander powder, garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.

- Reduce the heat and stir in the cream. If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little milk to achieve the desired consistency.

- Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes.

Step 3- Combine Paneer with Masala:

- Add the fried paneer cubes to the sauce. Stir gently to coat the paneer with the gravy.

- Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors. If you're using kasuri methi, crush it between your palms and add it now.

Step 4- Garnish and Serve:

- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

- Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Enjoy your Paneer Butter Masala! Let me know if you have any questions or need more tips.