Paneer Butter Masala is a popular Indian vegetarian dish that features paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based gravy. It is known for its delicious and comforting flavors and is a staple in Indian cuisine, particularly in North Indian and Punjabi cuisine.
Paneer Butter Masala
4
servings30
minutes40
minutesThe dish typically involves the following steps:
Ingredients
- For Paneer Marinade
250g paneer, cut into cubes
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
- For the Tomato Gravy
2 large tomatoes, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, minced
1/2 cup cashew nuts (soaked in warm water for 15-20 minutes)
2 tablespoons butter or ghee (clarified butter)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed
1/4 cup heavy cream
Salt to taste
Chopped fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Directions
- Start by marinating the paneer: In a bowl, mix the paneer cubes with red chili powder, turmeric powder, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
- Prepare the tomato gravy: In a blender, combine the soaked cashew nuts, chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, and ginger. Blend into a smooth paste.
- Heat butter or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Pour the tomato-cashew paste into the pan. Cook this mixture on medium heat, stirring frequently, until the oil begins to separate from the mixture. This may take around 10-15 minutes.
- Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and kasuri methi to the gravy. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and add heavy cream. Mix well to combine. If the gravy is too thick, you can add a little water to achieve your desired consistency.
- Add the marinated paneer cubes to the gravy. Gently stir to coat the paneer with the sauce. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning by adding salt if needed.
- Once the paneer is heated through and the flavors are well combined, remove the pan from the heat.
- Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves.