Paneer Butter Masala Recipe:  Flavorful Journey

Paneer Butter Masala, a  dish in Indian cuisine, is a creamy and flavorful delicacy loved by many. This dish beautifully combines the richness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a luscious tomato-based gravy, infused with aromatic spices. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the essence of Paneer Butter Masala, exploring its origins, key ingredients, and step-by-step instructions to recreate this delectable dish in your own kitchen.

Paneer Butter Masala, also known as Paneer Makhani, traces its roots to the culinary heritage of North India. It is believed to have originated in the kitchens of Punjab, where rich, creamy gravies are a hallmark of the region’s cuisine. Over the years, Paneer Butter Masala has transcended regional boundaries to become a beloved dish across the globe, cherished for its indulgent taste and comforting appeal.

 

Key Ingredients

For the Paneer Marinade:

• 250g paneer, cubed
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste

For the Gravy:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 2-3 cloves
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (for color)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1/4 cup cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• 

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Paneer

1. In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
2. Add the paneer cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated.
3. Allow the paneer to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
   Heat the cream and oil in a saucepan over medium heat.
   Add cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
   Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the ginger garlic paste and cook for another minute.
   Add the tomato puree, Kashmiri red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, kasuri methi, and salt. Cook the sauce until the oil separates from the masala.
5. 

Step 3: Cook the Paneer

1. Once the gravy is cooked, gently add the marinated paneer cubes.
2. Mix well, ensuring the paneer is coated with the flavorful gravy.
3. Simmer for a few minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors of the masala.

Step 4: Finish with Cream and Garnish

1. Pour in the cream, stirring gently to incorporate it into the gravy.
2. Cook for an additional minute, then turn off the heat.
3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
4. 

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the Paneer Butter Masala to a serving dish.
2. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
3. Enjoy the creamy goodness of this classic Indian dish with your loved ones.

Conclusion

Paneer Butter Masala is a dish that never fails to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a comforting meal at home, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving for more. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to savor the essence of Paneer Butter Masala.

FAQs

Can I make Paneer Butter Masala ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the gravy, add the paneer cubes, and finish with cream as per the recipe.

Can I make Paneer Butter Masala without cream?

While cream adds richness to the dish, you can substitute it with cashew cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free version of Paneer Butter Masala.

Can I adjust the spice level of Paneer Butter Masala?

Absolutely! Adjust the quantity of red chili powder according to your preference to control the spice level of the dish.

More similer Recipes You May Like in listed ,

Palak Paneer Recipe

Keto Paneer Bhurji

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Enjoy your culinary adventure with Paneer Butter Masala, and revel in the joy of creating and savoring this timeless Indian delicacy!