Paneer Butter Masala

The aroma of warm spices blending with creamy tomato sauce makes paneer butter masala irresistible. This classic Indian dish pairs tender paneer cubes with a rich, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for any meal.

What makes this dish stand out?

• The buttery, creamy tomato sauce delivers a luxurious texture and depth of flavor.
• Perfectly spiced with garam masala, red chili powder, and turmeric for a balanced heat and aroma.
• Paneer cubes absorb the sauce beautifully, making every bite melt in your mouth.

Ingredients you’ll need

• 250 grams of paneer, cut into cubes
• 3 tablespoons of butter
• 1 tablespoon of oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon of garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1/2 cup of cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

How to prepare this creamy delight

Heat oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter to release their aroma.

Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Add the tomato puree, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook the mixture until the oil starts to separate from the sauce.

Sprinkle garam masala into the sauce and mix well. Gently fold in the paneer cubes, ensuring they are coated evenly in the masala.

Pour in the cream and mix thoroughly. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Finish by adding the remaining butter and garnishing with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with naan or rice for a complete meal.

Expert tips for the best results

• Use fresh paneer for the best texture and flavor. Store-bought or homemade works equally well as long as it’s soft.
• Adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the red chili powder to suit your taste preferences.
• For a smoother sauce, strain the tomato puree before cooking to remove any seeds or skin.

What to serve with this dish

• Pair it with soft, buttery naan for a traditional combination that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Steamed basmati rice makes a simple and comforting side that balances the richness of the dish.
• Serve alongside a fresh cucumber and onion salad for a refreshing contrast to the creamy flavors.

Storage and leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.