Paneer Butter Masala recipe card | step by step video
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Introduction of Paneer Butter Masala
Paneer Butter Masala, also known as Butter Paneer, is one of the most loved North Indian curries. This creamy, mildly spiced dish is made with soft paneer cubes cooked in a rich tomato-cashew-based gravy, flavored with butter, cream, and aromatic spices. It is a star dish on every Indian restaurant menu and is often paired with naan, roti, or jeera rice. If you are looking for a restaurant-style paneer curry at home, this Paneer Butter Masala recipe is a must-try.
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Traditional Regional Value of Recipe
Paneer Butter Masala originated in Punjab and has now become a global favorite. In North India, it is a festive and celebratory dish often prepared for special occasions and family gatherings. Unlike spicy curries, this dish is known for its mild, buttery flavor with a balance of sweetness and tanginess. It is closely related to the famous Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) but is 100% vegetarian, making it a favorite among vegetarians across India.
Is Paneer Butter Masala Healthy?
Paneer Butter Masala is rich, creamy, and indulgent. While it is not a low-calorie dish due to the butter, cream, and cashew paste, it does provide protein and calcium from paneer. Consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. To make it healthier, you can reduce butter and cream or substitute cream with yogurt or milk. Pairing it with whole wheat roti or brown rice can also balance the meal.
Short Video Recipe
Watch recipe video about Paneer Butter Masala recipe card | step by step video: Paneer Butter Masala Recipe | Creamy and Aromatic Indian Delight | ASMR #shorts
Indulge in the exquisite flavors of our Paneer Butter Masala, a classic Indian dish that embodies the perfect blend of rich, creamy ...
Paneer butter masala
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cube the paneer and soak it in hot water for 10 minutes to soften and remove any raw taste.
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add whole spices (bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cloves) and sauté for 10-30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chopped ginger and garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until aromatic.
- Add chopped onions and cook for 4-5 minutes until they turn translucent and begin to brown.
- Some recipes suggest cooking onions until golden brown, which can take 10 minutes.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cashew nuts. Cook covered on medium heat for 5-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the mixture becomes mushy.
- Remove the pan from heat. Allow the mixture to cool slightly (5-10 minutes) to prevent the blender from overheating or exploding.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend to a smooth, silky puree.
- Return the pan to medium heat. Add butter and the remaining oil. Once the butter melts, add the ground tomato-cashew puree, along with garam masala, Kashmiri chili powder, coriander powder, cardamom powder, sugar, and salt.
- Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the raw smell to cook off and the oil to begin separating from the masala.
- The sauce should become thick, shiny, and ooze oil.
- Add ½ to 1 cup of water (or milk) to achieve the desired gravy consistency.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the drained paneer cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes on medium heat, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors.
- Stir in the heavy cream and crushed kasuri methi. Mix well and cook for 1-2 minutes on low heat.
- Turn off the heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve immediately.
- Safety Notes: Always allow the onion-tomato mixture to cool slightly before blending to prevent the blender from overheating or the hot liquid from splattering violently.
- Use caution when handling hot oil and butter.
Video
Notes
The key to a restaurant-style dish is achieving a thick, glossy gravy where the oil separates from the sauce.
Soaking the paneer in hot water prevents it from becoming rubbery and ensures a soft texture.
Recipe Key Ingredients & Steps (Quick Summary)
- Paneer: Soft, fresh cubes of Indian cottage cheese.
- Base: Onion paste, tomato puree, cashew paste, ginger-garlic.
- Spices: Red chili powder, garam masala, kasuri methi, salt.
- Richness: Butter, fresh cream, ghee/oil.
- Steps: Cook onion-tomato base → Add cashew paste and spices → Simmer → Add paneer cubes → Finish with cream and butter.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Paneer Butter Masala
- Use ripe, red tomatoes for natural sweetness and color.
- Soak cashews in warm water before blending for a smoother paste.
- Always crush kasuri methi between your palms before adding to release aroma.
- Do not overcook paneer; just simmer for 2–3 minutes to keep it soft.
- For restaurant-style texture, strain the onion-tomato puree before cooking.
Variants of the Recipe
- Shahi Paneer: A royal version made with yogurt, cream, and saffron.
- Kadai Paneer: A spicier, semi-dry curry with capsicum and freshly ground spices.
- Paneer Tikka Masala: Grilled paneer tikka cooked in a similar creamy gravy.
- Vegan Butter Masala: Replace paneer with tofu and cream with cashew cream or coconut milk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. What is the difference between Paneer Butter Masala and Shahi Paneer?
Paneer Butter Masala has a tomato-based gravy, while Shahi Paneer is creamier with yogurt, nuts, and sometimes saffron.
Q. Can I make Paneer Butter Masala without onion and garlic?
Yes, skip onion and garlic for a Jain version. Use only tomato puree, cashew paste, and spices for a no-onion, no-garlic curry.
Q. Can I use store-bought paneer?
Yes, but for best results, soak store-bought paneer in warm water for 15 minutes to soften before adding to curry.
Q. How do I make it vegan?
Substitute paneer with tofu and cream with cashew cream or coconut cream.
Q. Which is the best accompaniment for Paneer Butter Masala?
It pairs perfectly with naan, garlic butter naan, tandoori roti, or steamed jeera rice.
Final Thoughts
If you love Indian curries, Paneer Butter Masala is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, rich, and soul-satisfying. Whether it’s a festive dinner or a weekend treat, this restaurant-style paneer butter masala will impress your family and guests alike. Try this easy homemade recipe and enjoy the flavors of Punjab right in your kitchen.
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