Paneer butter masala : A fusion of indian delight

Paneer butter masala is a delicious and nutritious dish as paneer is a good source of protein and calcium. It is also a good option for vegetarians who are looking for a flavorful and filling meal. The dish is easy to make and can be prepared in a short time, making it a popular choice for weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Paneer butter masala, often known as butter paneer, is a thick, rich, and creamy tomato-based dish made with fried and soaked paneer cubes. This curry is slightly sweet and not particularly hot.

Paneer butter masala is a popular vegetarian dish in North Indian cuisine. It is made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) that is cooked in a creamy tomato-based gravy with butter, cream, and spices. The dish has a rich and creamy texture and is usually served with naan, roti, or rice.

It’s simple to create creamy restaurant-style Paneer Butter Masala at home. This creamy curry has onion, tomatoes, cashews, cream, and (of course!) butter.

You can make this restaurant-style paneer butter masala at home using my simple, quick, and tasty recipe. It’s so simple, in fact, that you can cook it on even the busiest weeknights! This quick dinner takes only 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook.

Ingredients 

  • 200g paneer, cut into cubes
  • 2 large onions, chopped
  • 2 large tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 green chilies, chopped
  • 1-inch ginger, grated
  • 4-5 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala powder
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup cream
  • Salt to taste
  • Coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions:

  1. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a pan and fry the paneer cubes until they turn golden brown. Remove the paneer from the pan and keep it aside.
  2. In the same pan, add another tablespoon of butter and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
  3. Add chopped onions, ginger, and garlic and sauté until the onions turn translucent.
  4. Add chopped tomatoes and green chilies and cook until the tomatoes turn soft and mushy.
  5. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a minute.
  6. Add cream and mix well. Let the gravy simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
  7. Add the fried paneer cubes to the gravy and mix well.
  8. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Serving suggestion 

  1. Naan or Roti: Paneer butter masala pairs well with freshly baked naan or roti. The bread can be used to scoop up the gravy and paneer cubes, making for a delicious and filling meal.
  2. Rice: Basmati rice is a popular choice to serve with paneer butter masala. The rice can be cooked plain or flavored with spices like cumin, cardamom, and cinnamon.
  3. Salad: A simple salad made with lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and onions can be served on the side to add some freshness and crunch to the meal.
  4. Raita: Raita is a yogurt-based condiment that can be served with paneer butter masala to balance out the spices and add some creaminess. It can be made with grated cucumber, chopped onions, and mint leaves.
  5. Pickles and Chutneys: Indian pickles and chutneys are great accompaniments to paneer butter masala. They add a tangy and spicy flavor to the meal and can be used to balance out the richness of the gravy.

Tips and variation

  1.  Use fresh paneer, tomatoes, onions, and spices for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients will impart a rich and authentic taste to the dish.
  2. Fry the paneer cubes in butter or oil until they turn golden brown. This will give them a crispy texture and enhance their flavor.
  3.  Use a blender or food processor to puree the tomato and onion mixture. This will give the gravy a smooth and creamy texture.
  4.  Adjust the number of spices according to your taste preferences. Add more or less red chili powder, garam masala, or other spices depending on how spicy or mild you want the dish to be.
  5.  Add cream at the end of the cooking process, once the gravy has thickened. This will prevent the cream from separating or curdling

FAQs 

Q: Is it possible to make paneer butter masala vegan?
A: Paneer butter masala may be made vegan by substituting tofu or another vegan protein, as well as utilizing vegan butter and cream alternatives.

Q: How long will paneer butter masala keep in the refrigerator?
A: Paneer butter masala will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days if put in an airtight container.

Q: Can you freeze paneer butter masala?
A: Yes, you may freeze paneer butter masala for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.

Q: How should paneer butter masala be reheated?
A: Reheat paneer butter masala over low heat. You may need to include a little water or cream to thin the gravy if it has thickened in the fridge.

Q: Can paneer butter masala be made without cream?
A: Yes, paneer butter masala can be made without cream by using coconut milk or cashew cream as a substitute. This will give the dish a similar creamy texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Calories 314kcal
Carbohydrates 27g
Protein 8g
Fat 22g
Sodium 1221mg
Potassium 1085mg
Sugar 10 g
Vitamin A 1914IU
Calcium 166 mg
Iron 4 mg

paneer butter masala

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

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