Butter Paneer Masala Recipe: A Creamy and Indulgent Delight

 Introduction:

Butter Paneer Masala, also known as Paneer Makhani, is a rich and luscious Indian dish that combines succulent cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a creamy and flavorful tomato-based gravy. In this article, we present a delectable butter paneer masala recipe that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create this indulgent vegetarian dish at home.

Ingredients:

• 250 grams paneer, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions:

1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown.
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
4. Stir in the tomato puree and cook for a few minutes until the oil separates from the masala.
5. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, kasuri methi, and salt. Mix well to combine the spices with the masala.
6. Reduce the heat to low and add the paneer cubes to the masala. Gently stir to coat the paneer with the masala.
7. Cover the pan and let the paneer simmer in the masala for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Pour in the heavy cream and mix well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to incorporate the cream into the gravy.
9. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness and aroma.
10. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice. Enjoy the creamy and indulgent butter paneer masala!

Variations:

• For a nuttier flavor, you can add a tablespoon of cashew paste or almond paste to the masala along with the cream.
• To make it spicier, increase the amount of red chili powder or add a finely chopped green chili to the masala.
• You can customize the consistency of the gravy by adding water or adjusting the amount of cream according to your preference.

Conclusion: Butter Paneer Masala is a classic Indian dish that embodies richness and indulgence. With its creamy tomato-based gravy and tender paneer cubes, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Follow this recipe to create a restaurant-style butter paneer masala right in your own kitchen. Whether enjoyed with naan, roti, or rice, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for a delectable and comforting meal.