What is Paneer Butter Masala Recipe?
Such a famous dish in India as Paneer Butter Masala is one of the most popular recipes in Indian cuisine. It is made with soft cubes of paneer, or Indian cottage cheese in a thick creamy, and lightly spiced tomato-based gravy. The dish is popular due to its combination of sour, spicy, and sweet tasting components and has won over the demands of the people of all ages.making it a hit among people of all ages.
History and Origins of the Dish
Given that Paneer Butter Masala, also referred to as Paneer Makhani, stems out of North Indian food, especially the Punjabi food, it is characterized by rich flavor and a smell of the ghee. It is believed to have been created in Delhi, and it was influenced by Butter Chicken. Replacing chicken with paneer and adding a vegetarian touch to it, it resulted in a creamy wonder that became a star of the Indian restaurants all over the world.
Why It’s a Favorite Across India and Beyond
This is something that will satisfy everyone. It is a bliss food to many people with its rich texture, rich color, and the level of spiciness being low. Paneer Butter Masala is one of the best food dishes, and no matter whether it is served during a wedding, at a festival or a very ordinary family dinner the dish is always impressive. It is also a global attraction because it is the most preferred dish in the Indian restaurants across the world.
Key Ingredients for Paneer Butter Masala Recipe
Main Ingredients Explained
Each ingredient plays a critical role in crafting the flavor of Paneer Butter Masala. Let’s take a closer look.
Paneer – Fresh Indian Cottage Cheese
The hero in the dish is paneer. It is fresh and soft sinking in the flavours of the gravy. Homemade or bought in stores, does not forget firm, tender.
Butter – Richness and Creaminess
Butter lends its authenticity with its rich and silky attitude as the name implies. Butter can be used (salty and unsalty) and the unsalty is better to be used to control the level of saltiness of the food.
Tomatoes, Spices, and Cashews – The Heart of the Gravy
The puree is intense red and sour in flavour due to the use of ripe tomatoes. Use of spices such as garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric to give the richness and the soaked cashews are melted into the gravy to get the smooth rich and rich gravy.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
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Honey or sugar – balances the tanginess.
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Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek) – adds a distinctive aroma.
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Cream – makes the dish more indulgent.
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Ginger-garlic paste – enhances savoriness.
Essential Kitchen Tools & Utensils
Must-Have Equipment for Smooth Cooking
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Non-stick pan or kadhai
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Blender or mixer grinder
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Strainer
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Ladle and spatula
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Knife and chopping board
Tips for Prepping Ahead of Time
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Soak cashews in warm water for 10 minutes.
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Cut paneer into equal-sized cubes.
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Measure out all your spices and keep them handy.
Authentic Paneer Butter Masala Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Preparing the Tomato-Cashew Gravy Base
Ingredients:
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4 medium tomatoes (chopped)
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15 cashews
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1 green chili
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1-inch ginger
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3 garlic cloves
Instructions:
Boil tomatoes, cashews, chili, ginger, and garlic in 1 cup of water for 8–10 minutes. Let it cool.
Step 2: Blending the Gravy Smooth
Transfer the boiled mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Strain to remove seeds or skins for a silky texture.
Step 3: Cooking the Masala and Paneer Together
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan. Add ½ teaspoon cumin seeds. Add the tomato-cashew puree and cook on medium heat until oil separates. Stir in 1 teaspoon garam masala, ½ teaspoon red chili powder, salt to taste, and ½ teaspoon turmeric.
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Add ½ cup water and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Add paneer cubes and simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 4: Final Touches – Butter and Cream Finish
Stir in 1 tablespoon cream and 1 tablespoon butter. Crumble in some kasuri methi. Simmer for 2 minutes and turn off the heat.
