Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

The Paneer Butter Masala Recipe is a rich and creamy dish that has won hearts worldwide. Its delightful blend of spices, buttery flavor, and soft paneer cubes makes it perfect for any occasion—from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. This recipe stands out due to its ease of preparation and the ability to impress guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of buttery richness and aromatic spices creates a mouthwatering taste.
• Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Vegetarian Delight: A great option for vegetarians, ensuring everyone at the table has something hearty to enjoy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect with naan, rice, or even as part of a larger Indian feast.
• Customizable Spice Levels: Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, whether you like it mild or spicy.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing the Paneer Butter Masala Recipe easier and more efficient. Gather these essential items before starting.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Non-stick skillet
• Spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking and allows for easy cooking of the paneer without burning.
• Spatula: Useful for stirring ingredients without damaging them, especially delicate paneer cubes.

Ingredients

For the Paneer Dish

• 250 grams paneer, cubed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 100 ml cream

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by heating the butter and oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once melted:
1. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
2. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Tomatoes

Next, pour in the pureed tomatoes:
1. Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt.
2. Cook until the mixture thickens and oil separates from it.

Step 3: Add Paneer Cubes

Once your base is ready:
1. Gently add the cubed paneer into the skillet.
2. Mix well to coat each piece with the sauce.

Step 4: Finish with Cream and Spices

To finish your dish:
1. Pour in the cream and sprinkle garam masala over it.
2. Stir everything together gently; let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally:
1. Remove from heat and garnish with finely chopped parsley.
2. Serve hot with naan or rice for a delightful meal!

How to Serve Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

Paneer Butter Masala is a rich and creamy dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it right enhances its flavors and makes for a delightful meal experience.

With Naan or Roti

• Soft Naan – The fluffy texture of naan perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
• Whole Wheat Roti – A healthier option that adds a nutty flavor to the meal.

With Rice

• Steamed Basmati Rice – Fragrant basmati rice absorbs the buttery gravy wonderfully.
• Jeera Rice – Cumin-infused rice adds an aromatic touch, pairing well with the dish.

As a Part of Thali

• Vegetable Sides – Include some seasonal vegetable dishes for a balanced meal.
• Dal Makhani – The combination of paneer butter masala and dal makhani offers diverse flavors.

Accompaniments

• Pickles – A tangy pickle can elevate the taste and add a spicy kick.
• Raita – A cool cucumber or mint raita balances the richness of paneer butter masala.

How to Perfect Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

To achieve the best flavor in your Paneer Butter Masala Recipe, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Paneer – Fresh paneer has a better texture and flavor than store-bought options.
• Balance Spices Carefully – Adjust spices according to your taste preference for optimal flavor.
• Sauté Onions Thoroughly – Cooking onions well enhances sweetness and depth of flavor in the sauce.
• Add Cream at the End – Adding cream at the last moment keeps it rich without curdling.
• Let It Simmer – Allowing the dish to simmer helps meld all flavors beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

Pairing your Paneer Butter Masala with complementary side dishes enhances your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Basmati Rice – This fragrant rice is the perfect base for soaking up delicious curry.
2. Naan Bread – Soft naan is ideal for scooping up paneer and gravy, making each bite delightful.
3. Aloo Gobi – A spiced potato and cauliflower dish that adds variety to your meal plate.
4. Dal Tadka – Lentils cooked with spices provide a hearty addition alongside paneer butter masala.
5. Palak Paneer – Another paneer dish, but with spinach; it offers different flavors while staying within theme.
6. Mixed Vegetable Curry – A medley of vegetables adds color and nutrition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a delicious Paneer Butter Masala Recipe, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the taste and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale paneer: Fresh paneer is crucial for the best flavor. Always check for freshness or make your own for optimal taste.
• Overcooking the masala: Cooking the spices too long can cause bitterness. Sauté just until fragrant, and then proceed with the recipe.
• Skipping the cream: The cream adds richness to the dish. Don’t skip it; instead, use a good quality heavy cream for a smooth finish.
• Not balancing spices: Too much of one spice can overpower the dish. Taste as you cook to ensure a balanced flavor profile.
• Ignoring cooking times: Each step has recommended cooking times for a reason. Stick to these times to achieve the correct consistency and flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Paneer Butter Masala can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy identification later.

Reheating Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat until warm, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook until hot, adding a splash of water if needed to adjust consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Paneer Butter Masala Recipe?

Paneer Butter Masala Recipe is a creamy, rich curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a buttery tomato sauce with aromatic spices.

How can I make Paneer Butter Masala Recipe vegan?

To make this dish vegan, substitute paneer with tofu and use coconut cream instead of dairy cream.

Can I prepare Paneer Butter Masala Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What do I serve with Paneer Butter Masala Recipe?

This dish pairs well with naan, roti, or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Paneer Butter Masala Recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. You can customize it by adjusting the spice levels or adding vegetables like peas or bell peppers. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Paneer Butter Masala

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Paneer Butter Masala, a creamy and rich Indian dish that has captured hearts around the globe. This vegetarian delight features soft paneer cubes simmered in a luscious tomato sauce, infused with aromatic spices and finished with a swirl of cream. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your spice preference. Serve it alongside naan or basmati rice for a comforting meal that will impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

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• 250 grams paneer, cubed
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 100 ml cream

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Instructions

1. In a non-stick skillet, heat butter and oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions until golden brown.
2. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for one minute until fragrant.
3. Add pureed tomatoes, red chili powder, turmeric, and salt. Cook until thickened.
4. Gently fold in the cubed paneer to coat with the sauce.
5. Pour in cream and sprinkle garam masala; simmer for five minutes.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with naan or rice.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Indian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 60mg