Paneer Butter Masala – A Royal Treat for Your Taste Buds

 Paneer Butter Masala – A Royal Treat for Your Taste Buds

Paneer Butter Masala, also known as Paneer Makhani, is a rich and creamy North Indian dish that perfectly blends soft paneer cubes with a luscious tomato-based gravy. Loved by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike, this dish is a staple in Indian households and a popular choice in restaurants. The smooth texture of the gravy, infused with butter, cream, and aromatic spices, makes it a mouthwatering delicacy that pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or jeera rice.


🕰️ Preparation & Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 25 minutes

  • Total Time: 40 minutes


🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Gravy:

  • 200g Paneer (cut into cubes)

  • 2 tbsp Butter

  • 1 tbsp Oil

  • 2 Medium Onions (finely chopped)

  • 3 Medium Tomatoes (pureed)

  • 10-12 Cashews (soaked in warm water for 10 mins)

  • 1 tsp Ginger-Garlic Paste

  • 1 tsp Kashmiri Red Chili Powder (for vibrant color)

  • 1 tsp Coriander Powder

  • ½ tsp Turmeric Powder

  • 1 tsp Garam Masala

  • 1 tbsp Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

  • ¼ cup Fresh Cream

  • Salt (to taste)

For Garnishing:

  • Fresh Coriander Leaves

  • 1 tbsp Butter




👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cashew Paste

  • Soak 10-12 cashews in warm water for 10 minutes.

  • Blend the soaked cashews with 2 tbsp water into a smooth paste. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  • Heat 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter in a pan.

  • Add the finely chopped onions and sauté on medium heat until they turn golden brown.

  • Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.

Step 3: Add Tomato Puree & Spices

  • Add the pureed tomatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until the oil separates from the masala.

  • Stir in Kashmiri red chili powder, coriander powder, turmeric, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Cashew Paste & Simmer

  • Pour the cashew paste into the mixture and stir well.

  • Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the gravy to thicken and absorb the flavors.

Step 5: Add Paneer & Finish with Cream

  • Add the paneer cubes and gently stir to coat them with the gravy.

  • Sprinkle garam masala and crushed kasuri methi for that signature aromatic touch.

  • Add fresh cream and stir gently to bring a creamy consistency. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Final Touch & Garnish

  • Add 1 tbsp butter for extra richness.

  • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a vibrant and aromatic finish.


🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Paneer Butter Masala pairs perfectly with:

  • Butter Naan – Soft, fluffy Indian bread brushed with butter.

  • Jeera Rice – Fragrant basmati rice flavored with cumin.

  • Roti or Paratha – Whole wheat Indian bread that complements the creamy gravy.


💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Paneer Butter Masala

✅ Use fresh, homemade paneer for the best texture.
✅ Add a pinch of sugar to balance the tanginess of the tomatoes.
✅ Soak the paneer cubes in warm water before adding them to the gravy to keep them soft.


😋 Why You’ll Love Paneer Butter Masala

  • Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor.

  • Easy to make and perfect for festive occasions or family dinners.

  • A versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of Indian breads and rice dishes.

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