Paneer Butter Masala
Paneer butter masala is a beloved Indian dish that promises a delightful experience for your taste buds. The combination of soft paneer cubes immersed in a rich, buttery gravy made with tomatoes, cream, and aromatic spices makes it a perfect dish for special occasions or a comforting meal at home. This recipe is easy to follow and will soon become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, while cooking time is around 25 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 300 calories, 20g of fat, 15g of carbohydrates, and 15g of protein. This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
- Pour in the tomato puree and cook for 5-7 minutes until the oil separates.
- Add red chili powder, garam masala, and salt; mix well.
- Reduce heat and add cream, stirring until combined.
- Gently add the paneer cubes and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot with naan or rice.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute paneer with tofu for a vegan option. Additionally, coconut cream can be used instead of dairy cream for a dairy-free version.
Serving and Pairings
Paneer butter masala pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. It can also be served alongside a cucumber raita or a simple salad to balance the flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the paneer can make it rubbery.
- Not allowing the tomatoes to cook down enough can result in a raw taste.
- Using too much cream can overpower the dish.
- Skipping the garam masala will alter the flavor profile.
- Not seasoning properly can make the dish bland.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the paneer before cooking.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
- Adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Let the dish sit for a while before serving to enhance the flavors.
FAQs
Can I make paneer butter masala ahead of time?
Yes, paneer butter masala can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors deepen after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Is paneer butter masala spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. You can reduce the chili powder for a milder version.
What can I use instead of paneer?
Tofu is a great substitute for paneer, offering a similar texture while keeping the dish vegan-friendly.
Can I add vegetables to paneer butter masala?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or peas to enhance the dish’s nutritional value.
How long will paneer butter masala last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
In conclusion, paneer butter masala is a rich and creamy dish that is sure to impress anyone at the dinner table. With its delightful blend of spices and textures, it’s perfect for both special occasions and everyday meals. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a taste of Indian cuisine right at home.
Paneer Butter Masala
Ingredients
- 200 g paneer cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes pureed
- 1/2 cup cream
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.
- Pour in the tomato puree and cook for 5-7 minutes until the oil separates.
- Add red chili powder, garam masala, and salt; mix well.
- Reduce heat and add cream, stirring until combined.
- Gently add the paneer cubes and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
- Serve hot with naan or rice.