Paneer Butter Masala is a popular and indulgent Indian curry dish that features soft cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy. It’s a delight for vegetarians and paneer lovers. Here’s a descriptive recipe for Paneer Butter Masala:
Ingredients:
For the Paneer:
– 200 grams paneer, cut into cubes
– 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
For the Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
– 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
– 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add the paneer cubes and sauté them until they turn light golden brown. Remove the paneer from the pan and set it aside.
2. In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly browned. This will add a rich flavor to the gravy.
3. Add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
4. Pour in the tomato puree and stir well. Cook the mixture for a few minutes until the tomatoes start to reduce and thicken.
5. Add the red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, ground cumin, and ground coriander to the pan. Mix everything together and cook for a minute or two to allow the spices to release their flavors.
6. Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the heavy cream to the pan, stirring continuously. This will create a rich and creamy texture for the gravy.
7. Crush the dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) between your palms and sprinkle them into the pan. The fenugreek leaves add a unique flavor and aroma to the dish.
8. Season with salt to taste and simmer the gravy for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. Gently add the sautéed paneer cubes to the gravy and stir gently to coat them with the sauce. Be careful not to break the paneer cubes.
10. Cover the pan and let the paneer simmer in the gravy for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the cheese.
11. Remove the lid and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
12. Serve the Paneer Butter Masala hot with naan, roti, or rice. It pairs well with any Indian bread or steamed rice.
Paneer Butter Masala is a delightful combination of creamy tomato gravy and soft paneer cubes. Its rich flavors and smooth texture make it a favorite in Indian cuisine. Enjoy the indulgent and aromatic experience of Paneer Butter Masala with your loved ones.