Introduction:

Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Indian flavours with the rich and creamy Paneer Butter Masala. This iconic dish, featuring succulent cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a luscious tomato-based gravy, is a symphony of spices that will delight your taste buds. Follow this step-by-step recipe to recreate the magic of restaurant-style Paneer Butter Masala in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 250g paneer, cubed
• 3 large tomatoes, blanched and pureed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 cup cashews, soaked and ground to a paste
• 1/2 cup fresh cream
• 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1: Prepare the Gravy Base

1. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil.
2. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.

2: Introduce the Tomatoes

1. Pour in the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
2. Add red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well.

3: Infuse the Cashew Cream

Incorporate the cashew paste, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

4: Add Paneer and Creaminess

Gently add the cubed paneer to the gravy, ensuring each piece is coated.
Pour in fresh cream and mix well. Adjust the consistency with water if needed.

5: Season with Garam Masala

Sprinkle garam masala over the simmering curry and stir.
Optionally, add sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

6: Finish with Butter

Finish by adding the remaining butter to enrich the flavors.
Let it simmer for a few more minutes until the gravy reaches your desired thickness.

7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.
Serve Paneer Butter Masala hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

This iconic Indian dish, a celebration of succulent paneer cubes bathed in a velvety tomato-based curry, is not merely a meal but a canvas painted with aromatic spices and rich, creamy indulgence.

Pro tips:

• Marinate paneer in a pinch of turmeric and red chilli powder for added flavour.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
• For a smoky flavour, you can finish the dish with a charcoal smoke infusion.

Follow these steps, and you’ll unveil a bowl of Paneer Butter Masala that’s not just a dish but a culinary masterpiece. Enjoy the rich and creamy indulgence of this classic Indian delight!