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Discover the rich flavors of our Indian Paneer Butter Masala dish, a culinary favorite that delights the taste buds with every bite.
Savor the traditional spices and creamy texture of this authentic Indian delicacy that will transport you to a world of savory perfection. Try our Indian Paneer Butter Masala today and experience a true culinary delight that will leave you craving for more.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Course: Main
Cuisine: Indian
Servings: 4
Calories: ~430 per serving
Materials Required:
Skillet, blender, knife
Ingredients:
250g paneer, cubed
1 onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, pureed
1/2 cup heavy cream (or cashew cream)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
1 tsp garam masala
1/2 tsp turmeric
1 tsp chili powder
2 tbsp butter
Salt to taste
Method:
Sauté onions in butter until soft.
Add garlic, ginger, and spices; cook for 1 minute.
Stir in tomato puree and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add paneer and cream; cook for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust salt and serve with naan or rice.
Servings:
Paneer Butter Masala is a rich, creamy, and mildly spiced Indian dish. The right side dishes can enhance its flavors while adding texture and balance. Here are some perfect accompaniments:
Tandoori Roti – A healthier, whole wheat alternative.
Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice) – Fragrant basmati rice infused with cumin.
Ghee Rice – Simple yet rich, with a buttery aroma that pairs beautifully.
Kachumber Salad – A fresh mix of cucumber, tomato, onion, and lemon juice.
Boondi Raita – Yogurt with crispy chickpea pearls, cooling the spice.
Onion Rings with Lemon – Sliced onions with a squeeze of lemon for a zesty contrast.
Crispy Papad (Poppadom) – A crunchy, spiced lentil cracker.
Description
Indian Paneer Butter Masala is a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that showcases the indulgent side of North Indian cuisine. It features soft cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) bathed in a velvety tomato-based gravy enriched with butter, cream, and a blend of aromatic spices. Key elements include:
Ingredients:
The gravy is made with ripe tomatoes, cashews or almonds (for extra creaminess), and a medley of spices such as garam masala, cumin, coriander, and fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi). Generous amounts of butter and cream create a luxurious, silky texture, while paneer adds a mild, yet satisfying, protein component.
Preparation:
The process typically involves sautéing onions and garlic in butter until golden, then adding pureed tomatoes and spices. The sauce simmers slowly, allowing the flavors to meld, before the paneer cubes are gently incorporated. A final flourish of cream and additional butter enriches the dish further, creating a harmonious balance of tangy, sweet, and savory notes.
Presentation:
Paneer Butter Masala is traditionally served hot, accompanied by naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. Garnished with a drizzle of cream and a sprinkle of fresh coriander, it presents an inviting, aromatic dish that appeals to both the eyes and the palate.
Benefits
This indulgent dish not only delights the taste buds but also offers several nutritional and practical benefits:
High-Quality Protein:
Paneer is a great source of protein, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians looking to meet their protein needs while enjoying a flavourful dish.
Calcium and Essential Nutrients:
Paneer is rich in calcium, which is important for bone health. Combined with the vitamins and antioxidants from tomatoes and spices, the dish provides a balanced nutritional profile.
Energy-Rich Meal:
The combination of healthy fats from butter and cream and the carbohydrates in accompanying breads or rice makes this dish a satisfying, energy-boosting option.
Digestive Aids:
Spices like cumin and coriander are known for their digestive properties, potentially helping to ease digestion and reduce discomfort after a hearty meal.
Cultural Experience:
Paneer Butter Masala offers a glimpse into the culinary traditions of North India, making it both a comforting home-cooked meal and a way to explore vibrant cultural flavors.
FAQ:
What is paneer, and where can I find it?
Paneer is a type of fresh, unsalted cheese commonly used in South Asian cuisine. It’s available at most Indian grocery stores or well-stocked supermarkets. You can also make it at home using milk and lemon juice or vinegar.
How can I adjust the spice level in Paneer Butter Masala?
The dish can be customized to suit your heat tolerance. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of red chili powder or fresh chilies. You can also balance any extra heat with a bit more cream or butter.
Can Paneer Butter Masala be made ahead of time?
Yes, the dish often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
Is Paneer Butter Masala suitable for a vegan diet?
Traditionally, this dish uses dairy products like paneer, butter, and cream. However, you can create a vegan version by substituting paneer with tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative and using vegan butter and coconut cream.
How can I make the gravy smoother?
For a silky texture, blend the tomato and spice mixture thoroughly before simmering with the paneer. Adding cashew paste or a small amount of cream toward the end of cooking can further enhance the smoothness and richness of the sauce.
Is Paneer Butter Masala suitable for a vegan diet?
Traditionally, this dish uses dairy products like paneer, butter, and cream. However, you can create a vegan version by substituting paneer with tofu or a plant-based cheese alternative and using vegan butter and coconut cream.
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