Perfect Paneer Butter Masala: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Paneer, also known as Indian cottage cheese, is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be incorporated into a wide range of dishes. One of the most popular and comforting dishes is Paneer Butter Masala, an iconic North Indian recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Below, we provide a simple, detailed recipe for this classic dish, along with some valuable tips to enhance the flavor and texture of your paneer cubes.

Ingredients and Preparation

The key to a successful Paneer Butter Masala is selecting the right quality paneer, which must be cubed tender and ready to cook without prior marination. Here’s the list of ingredients you would need:

250g paneer, cubed 2 tbsp butter 1 tbsp oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 2 large tomatoes, pureed 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste 1/2 tsp turmeric powder 1 tsp red chili powder 1 tsp garam masala 1 tsp coriander powder 1/2 tsp cumin powder 1/2 cup heavy cream or cashew cream (optional) 1/4 cup water (optional, for adjusting consistency) Salt to taste Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Paneer Butter Masala:

Sauté the Paneer: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Lightly fry the paneer cubes until they are golden on all sides. Remove and set them aside. Prepare the Gravy: In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears. Subsequently, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Stir well to combine. Cook the Tomatoes: Add the tomato puree to the pan. Cook the mixture until the oil starts separating from the sides, usually taking 5-7 minutes. Blend the Gravy (Optional): For a smooth gravy, let the mixture cool slightly and blend it to a smooth paste, then return it to the pan. Add the Cream and Paneer: Stir in the cream and add garam masala. Add the fried paneer cubes and mix well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes on low heat. If the gravy is too thick, add a little water to adjust the consistency. Season and Garnish: Taste the dish and adjust salt as needed. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve: Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Tips to Enhance Your Paneer Butter Masala

For a richer flavor: Add a few cashews while blending the tomato gravy for a creamy texture and enhanced taste. For a smokey flavor: Use a tadka (tempered) approach by adding whole spices like mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and cardamom to the boiling oil before briefly adding and removing them. This will add a delightful smoky flavor to your dish.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Paneer Butter Masala, a must-try for lovers of Indian cuisine!

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