Paneer Butter Masala Recipe – A Rich & Creamy Delight from North India

Paneer Butter Masala, also known as Butter Paneer, is one of the most beloved vegetarian dishes in Indian cuisine. With its rich tomato-based gravy, creamy texture, and the melt-in-your-mouth feel of paneer cubes, it’s a dish that wins hearts at every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a festive occasion, this North Indian classic never fails to impress.

In this post, I’ll guide you through a simple, restaurant-style Paneer Butter Masala recipe you can whip up in under 40 minutes at home! And if you’re looking for premium quality Indian spices, be sure to check out indianspicecart.com – your trusted destination for authentic Indian flavors.

What is Paneer Butter Masala?

Paneer Butter Masala is a popular Indian curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) simmered in a buttery, mildly spiced tomato and cashew-based gravy. The use of cream, butter, and aromatic Indian spices gives it a luxurious texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with naan, roti, or rice.

Unlike spicy curries, this dish is mild and slightly sweet, making it a favorite even among those new to Indian food.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Gravy:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp oil

• 1 bay leaf

• 2–3 cloves

• 2 green cardamoms

• 1-inch cinnamon stick

• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)

• 3 garlic cloves

• 1-inch piece of ginger

• 3 medium tomatoes (pureed, about 1 to 1½ cups)

• 10–12 cashews (soaked in warm water for 15 mins and blended to a paste)

• 1 tsp red chili powder (available on indianspicecart.com)

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• Salt to taste

• ½ to ¾ cup water (adjust for consistency)

• 2 tbsp fresh cream

For the Paneer:

• 200–250g paneer, cubed

  
  

  Optional: Lightly sauté the paneer cubes in a bit of butter for added flavor.

For Garnish:

• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves, crushed)

• 1–2 tsp fresh cream or a small cube of butter

• Fresh coriander leaves (optional)

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:

Heat 2 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp oil in a pan. Add bay leaf, cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add finely chopped onions, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Sauté until onions turn golden brown.

2. Build the Base:

Add the tomato puree and cook on medium flame until the raw smell disappears and the oil starts to separate (around 6–8 minutes).

Add red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, and garam masala. Mix well.

3. Cream It Up:

Add the blended cashew paste and cook for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.

4. Adjust Consistency:

Add ½ to ¾ cup water gradually and stir to get your desired gravy thickness. Let it simmer for 5–6 minutes.

5. Add the Paneer:

Add the paneer cubes and gently mix. Let them cook in the gravy for 2–3 minutes so they soak up the flavor.

6. Finish with Cream & Kasuri Methi:

Turn off the heat and stir in 2 tbsp fresh cream and 1 tsp crushed kasuri methi.

Garnish with a swirl of cream, fresh coriander, or a pat of butter before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this rich and creamy Paneer Butter Masala with:

• Butter Naan

• Garlic Kulcha

• Steamed Basmati Rice

• Jeera Rice

• Roti or Paratha

It’s also a great side dish for party meals or special occasions.

Pro tips

• Use soft, fresh paneer for the best texture. Soaking store-bought paneer in warm water for 10 minutes can soften it.

• Soaking cashews beforehand ensures a smooth, creamy paste.

• Add sugar (½ tsp) if you prefer a slightly sweeter version (optional).

• For best flavor, use freshly ground spices — shop them now on indianspicecart.com!

Paneer Butter Masala is comfort food with a touch of elegance — a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and mildly spiced flavors. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience. Try this recipe at home and bring the magic of Indian restaurant flavors right to your kitchen!

If you enjoyed this recipe, leave a comment below and share it with your friends and family. And don’t forget to explore the finest selection of spices and ingredients at indianspicecart.com to take your cooking to the next level.

Happy cooking!