Paneer Butter Masala

Name: Paneer Butter Masala
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 250 g paneer (cubed); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon oil; 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 tomatoes (pureed); 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon red chili powder; 1/2 cup cream; Salt to taste; Fresh coriander for garnish

Paneer butter masala is a classic Indian dish that combines the rich, buttery flavor of a creamy tomato sauce with soft, savory paneer. Known for its luxurious taste and vibrant color, this dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner. Serve it with naan or rice for a delightful experience that will tantalize your taste buds.

Ingredients

250g paneer, cubed
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, pureed
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1/2 cup cream
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander for garnish

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 300 calories, 20g of fat, 15g of protein, and 25g of carbohydrates. This information is based on a serving size for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat.
Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes.
Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.
Mix in garam masala and red chili powder.
Add cubed paneer and mix gently.
Pour in cream and stir to combine.
Season with salt to taste.
Simmer for 5-10 minutes on low heat.
Garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

If you don’t have paneer, you can substitute it with tofu for a vegan option. Additionally, coconut cream can replace dairy cream for a lactose-free version.

Serving and Pairings

Paneer butter masala is best served with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. It pairs wonderfully with a side of salad or raita to balance the richness.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the paneer can make it rubbery.
Not sautéing the onions enough can lead to a raw flavor.
Using too much cream can make the dish overly rich.
Not seasoning adequately can result in blandness.
Skipping the simmering step can affect flavor depth.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh paneer for the best texture and flavor.
Adjust spice levels according to your taste.
Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavors.
Add a touch of sugar for balance if the tomatoes are too acidic.

FAQs

Can I make paneer butter masala vegan?

Yes, you can substitute paneer with tofu and use coconut cream instead of dairy cream to make it vegan.

How spicy is paneer butter masala?

The spice level can be adjusted based on personal preference. Using less chili powder will make it milder.

What can I serve with paneer butter masala?

It pairs excellently with naan, roti, or rice, and a side of salad or raita enhances the meal.

Can I freeze paneer butter masala?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to a month. Just ensure it is stored in an airtight container.

How long does paneer butter masala last in the fridge?

It can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Paneer butter masala is not just a dish; it’s an experience packed with flavors that delight the palate. Perfect for any meal, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike, making it a must-try for any home cook.