Homemade Paneer Butter Masala

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Abhishek Boke (@kautumbikkitchen)

Paneer Butter Masala is a creamy, tomato-based curry with paneer, flavored with spices and finished with butter and cream. This dish is a favorite in many households and is perfect for pairing with naan or rice. The rich and flavorful gravy combined with soft paneer cubes makes it a delightful...

Homemade Paneer Butter Masala recipe
Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
30min
Total Time
45min

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 portion of paneer butter masala)

For the curry base

  • Oil
    Oil
    1tbsp
  • nos Sliced Onions
    nos Sliced Onions
    3
  • Garlic
    Garlic
    5clove
  • Ginger
    Ginger
    4piece
  • nos Tomato
    nos Tomato
    2
  • nos Cashews
    nos Cashews
    10

Spices and seasonings

  • Red Chilly Powder
    Red Chilly Powder
    1tsp
  • Turmeric
    Turmeric
    1/4tsp
  • Cumin Powder
    Cumin Powder
    1/2tsp
  • Melted Butter
    Melted Butter
    1tbsp
  • Red Chilly Powder
    Red Chilly Powder
    1/2tsp
  • Kasturi Methi
    Kasturi Methi
    1pinch
  • Salt
    Salt
    1dash
  • Water
    Water
    1cup

Main ingredient and garnish

  • Paneer Cubes
    Paneer Cubes
    250g
  • Fresh Cream
    Fresh Cream
    1dash

How to make Homemade Paneer Butter Masala

Prepare the curry base

  1. Step 1

    Heat oil in a pan and add khade masale (cloves, eliachi, badi eliachi, black pepper).

  2. Step 2

    Add sliced onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

  3. Step 3

    Add chopped tomatoes and cashews. Cook until the tomatoes soften.

  4. Step 4

    Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and cumin powder. Mix well.

  5. Step 5

    Blend the mixture into a smooth paste once cooled.

Cook the curry

  1. Step 1

    Heat the blended paste in a pan and add red chilly powder, turmeric, cumin powder, and melted butter.

  2. Step 2

    Add water to adjust the consistency and bring the mixture to a boil.

  3. Step 3

    Add paneer cubes and cook for a few minutes until the paneer absorbs the flavors.

  4. Step 4

    Sprinkle kasturi methi and adjust salt to taste.

Finish and serve

  1. Step 1

    Garnish with fresh cream and serve hot with naan or rice.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

0.0kcal

Protein

0.0g

Carbs

0.0g

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

0.0g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a richer flavor, use homemade paneer instead of store-bought.

  2. Soak the cashews in warm water for 10 minutes before blending for a smoother paste.

  3. Adjust the spice levels according to your preference by increasing or decreasing the red chilly powder.

  4. Adding a pinch of sugar can balance the tanginess of the tomatoes.

FAQS

  1. Can I use tofu instead of paneer?

    Yes, tofu can be used as a substitute for paneer, especially for a vegan version of the dish.

  2. What can I pair Paneer Butter Masala with?

    Paneer Butter Masala pairs well with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.

  3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

    Yes, you can prepare the curry base in advance and add paneer cubes just before serving.

  4. How do I store leftovers?

    Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.

  5. Can I skip the cream?

    Yes, you can skip the cream or use a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version of the dish.

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Abhishek Boke

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