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Paneer Butter Masala, a dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many around the world, is a staple in Indian cuisine. This creamy and rich curry, with its vibrant orange hue and aromatic spices, is a delight to the senses. When I first attempted this recipe, I was eager to see how it would fare with my family, who are true connoisseurs of Indian food. To my delight, the dish was an absolute hit. The paneer was perfectly tender, and the gravy had just the right balance of creaminess and spice. It became an instant favorite, requested frequently at family gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
For this delectable Paneer Butter Masala, you will need the following ingredients:
- 250 grams of paneer (cottage cheese), cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons of ginger-garlic paste
- 3 medium-sized tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder
- 1/2 cup of fresh cream
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
Creating a mouthwatering Paneer Butter Masala involves a few simple steps, which are as follows:
- Heat the oil and one tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium flame. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw aroma disappears.
- Pour in the tomato puree and let it cook until the oil separates from the masala.
- Mix in the red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and cumin powder. Stir well to combine the spices with the tomato mixture.
- Add salt to taste and pour in a little water if the mixture is too thick. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Gently fold in the paneer cubes, ensuring they are well coated with the masala.
- Add the remaining butter and fresh cream, stirring gently to blend with the gravy.
- Cook for another 5 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Finally, garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving hot.
Nutrition Facts
This recipe serves approximately four people, with each serving containing around 350 calories. It’s a rich dish due to the inclusion of butter and cream, providing a satisfying meal that’s also quite indulgent.
Preparation Time
One of the best aspects of Paneer Butter Masala is its relatively quick preparation time. Including all the chopping and cooking, you can have this dish ready in about 45 minutes, making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and celebratory meals.
How to Serve
Paneer Butter Masala is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in several ways:
- With Naan: Serve with warm butter naan to soak up the creamy sauce.
- With Rice: Pair with aromatic basmati rice for a complete meal.
- With Paratha: Accompany with flaky parathas for a hearty option.
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside other curries for a delightful Indian feast.
- In a Thali: Include as part of a traditional Indian thali with assorted dishes.
Additional Tips
- Use Fresh Paneer: For the best texture, use fresh paneer and soak it in warm water if it feels too firm.
- Adjust Spices: Customize the level of spice by adjusting the quantity of red chili powder.
- Smooth Gravy: For a super smooth gravy, consider blending the onion-tomato masala before adding paneer.
- Vegan Option: Substitute paneer with tofu and cream with coconut milk for a vegan version.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the gravy in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Add paneer just before serving.
FAQ Section
- Q: Can I use store-bought paneer?
A: Yes, store-bought paneer works well. Just ensure it’s fresh for the best results. - Q: Can I freeze Paneer Butter Masala?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the gravy without paneer and add fresh paneer when reheating. - Q: How do I prevent the paneer from becoming rubbery?
A: Avoid overcooking paneer. Add it towards the end and cook just until heated through. - Q: Can I use canned tomatoes?
A: Fresh tomatoes provide the best flavor, but canned tomatoes can be used in a pinch. - Q: Is there a substitute for cream?
A: Yes, you can use cashew cream or coconut milk as a substitute for dairy cream.
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