Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

Imagine a cozy evening where the aroma of aromatic spices fills the air, the golden glow of candles casts a warm light on your dining table, and your family gathers around to share a home-cooked meal. Our Paneer Butter Masala recipe is perfect for such an occasion. This dish brings together soft cubes of paneer in a rich, creamy tomato-butter gravy that’s both comforting and indulgent. It’s an ideal recipe to make family meals extra special and to celebrate the little moments that bring us closer together.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Intermediate

Ingredients

• 200g paneer, cut into cubes
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 cup fresh cream
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Begin by heating the oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle until fragrant.
2. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Incorporate the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another 2 minutes until the raw aroma fades.
3. Stir in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates from the masala, about 10 minutes.
4. Sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to blend fully.
5. Add the paneer cubes to the skillet and gently mix, ensuring each cube is coated with the rich tomato gravy.
6. Pour in the fresh cream and the remaining butter, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
7. Finish by sprinkling the garam masala and adding salt to taste. Give it a final stir and remove from heat.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and a dollop of cream before serving.

Helpful Tips

• If you prefer a thicker gravy, blend a handful of cashews with the tomato puree for added richness.
• For a vegan version, substitute paneer with tofu and use dairy-free cream.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your family’s preference, reducing or increasing the chili powder and green chilies as needed.

Storage Instructions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.

Ingredient Substitutions: You can use canned tomato puree if fresh tomatoes are unavailable. Feel free to replace fresh cream with yogurt for a tangier flavor.

Pairings and Complementary Dishes

Paneer Butter Masala pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice, buttery naan, or soft chapatis. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a refreshing cucumber raita and a side of tangy mango pickle. A glass of salted lassi would be the perfect drink to balance the richness of this dish.

At Zynahz, we believe in creating moments of joy and bonding through the art of cooking. This Paneer Butter Masala recipe is a testament to that belief, promising warmth, comfort, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your culinary journey with us. Spread the love by sharing this recipe with friends and family, and don’t forget to explore more delightful dishes on Zynahz. Follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter to stay inspired in the kitchen. Happy cooking!