Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Base

1. Heat 1 tablespoon butter and the oil in a pan.

2. Add bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and green cardamoms.

3. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add onions, ginger, garlic, and cashew nuts.

5. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the onions soften.

6. Add chopped tomatoes and cook for 8–10 minutes until they become soft and mushy.

7. Allow the mixture to cool completely.

8. Blend into a smooth, creamy puree.

Step 2: Cook the Gravy

1. Heat the remaining butter in the same pan.

2. Pour in the prepared puree.

3. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Add:

   • Kashmiri red chili powder

   • Turmeric

   • Coriander powder

   • Cumin powder

   • Salt

5. Cook until the butter begins to separate from the gravy.

Step 3: Add Paneer

1. Pour in 1 to 1½ cups of water to achieve your desired consistency.

2. Stir well and bring the gravy to a gentle simmer.

3. Add the paneer cubes.

4. Simmer on low heat for 4–5 minutes.

5. Avoid overcooking to keep the paneer soft and tender.

Step 4: Finish the Curry

1. Stir in the tomato ketchup (optional) and sugar or honey.

2. Add fresh cream and mix gently.

3. Sprinkle garam masala and crushed kasuri methi.

4. Simmer for 2 minutes.

5. Turn off the heat and add a small cube of butter for extra richness.

Serving Suggestions

Paneer Butter Masala is best served with:

• Butter naan

• Garlic naan

• Tandoori roti

• Lachha paratha

• Jeera rice

• Steamed basmati rice

• Veg pulao

Serve with onion rings, cucumber salad, lemon wedges, and mint chutney for a complete restaurant-style meal.

Tips for Perfect Paneer Butter Masala

• Use ripe red tomatoes for a naturally sweet and vibrant gravy.

• Soak store-bought paneer in warm water for 10 minutes before cooking to keep it soft.

• Cashews create a smooth, creamy texture without needing excessive cream.

• Kashmiri red chili powder gives the curry its rich color while keeping it mildly spicy.

• Add fresh cream only at the end and avoid boiling it vigorously.

• Crush kasuri methi between your palms before adding it to release its aroma.

• Finish with a small knob of butter for an authentic restaurant-style taste.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

Paneer Butter Masala is one of India's most loved vegetarian dishes, featuring soft paneer cubes simmered in a rich, buttery tomato and cashew gravy with aromatic spices. Creamy, mildly spiced, and incredibly flavorful, it's the perfect choice for family dinners, festive occasions, or whenever you want a restaurant-style meal at home.