Introduction
Creamy, rich, and full of flavor — that’s Paneer Butter Masala, one of India’s most loved dishes!
Soft cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) simmered in a buttery, tomato-based gravy make this recipe a true comfort food.
Whether you serve it with naan, roti, or jeera rice, this restaurant-style Paneer Butter Masala will make every meal feel special.
🧾 Ingredients
For the Gravy Base:
- 3 medium tomatoes (roughly chopped)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 10–12 cashew nuts (soaked for 10 minutes)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
For the Curry:
- 200 g paneer (cut into cubes)
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp red chili powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup fresh cream
- 1 cup water (adjust consistency)
- 1 tbsp sugar (balances the tanginess)
For Garnish:
- 1 tbsp cream
- Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)
🍳 Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Tomato-Cashew Base
- Heat 1 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp oil in a pan.
- Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add tomatoes, ginger-garlic paste, and soaked cashews.
- Cook until the tomatoes become soft and mushy.
- Let it cool slightly, then blend into a smooth paste using a mixer or blender.
(Add a little water if needed.)
Step 2: Make the Gravy
- In the same pan, heat 1 tbsp butter.
- Add cumin seeds and bay leaf. Sauté for a few seconds.
- Pour in the blended tomato-cashew paste and stir well.
- Add red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, and salt.
- Cook on medium heat until the gravy thickens and releases oil from the sides.
Step 3: Add Paneer and Cream
- Add 1 cup water to adjust the gravy’s consistency.
- Stir in paneer cubes gently and cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Add cream, kasuri methi, and sugar. Mix well.
- Simmer for 2–3 more minutes on low flame.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Turn off the heat.
- Drizzle some cream on top and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot and creamy Paneer Butter Masala with naan, roti, or rice.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Butter Naan, Garlic Roti, or Jeera Rice.
- Add a side of Onion Salad and Mint Raita for a complete meal.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Use fresh, soft paneer for best results — soak store-bought paneer in warm water for 10 minutes before use.
- Add 1 tsp honey instead of sugar for a healthier sweetness.
- For a smoky restaurant-style flavor, place a hot charcoal piece in the gravy bowl, drizzle ghee over it, cover, and let it sit for 2 minutes (optional “dhungar” method).
❤️ Why You’ll Love It
- Restaurant-style taste at home
- Rich, creamy, and mildly spiced
- Perfect for family dinners or special occasions
- Ready in just 30 minutes