An Irresistible Indian Classic: Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer Butter Masala is one of the most popular Indian dishes, characterized by its rich, creamy texture and flavorful tomato-based sauce. This delicious dish has its origin in the northern regions of India, particularly in Punjab, where it has been enjoyed for generations. The roots of the recipe can be traced back to the 1950s and 1960s, during the era when the tandoori cuisine gained popularity in Indian restaurants.

Invention of Paneer Butter Masala The credit of this recipe has usually been given to the innovational skills of chefs, as they attempted to design various dishes from paneer-a new fresh cheese widely used in the Indian food industry. So when paneer was used, it was mixed with richly flavored tomato gravy containing butter and cream, thereby evolving this delectable Paneer Butter Masala.

Over the years, Paneer Butter Masala has become an Indian staple in restaurants around the world, loved for its comfort flavors and indulgent richness. It has also been a favorite among vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Paneer Butter Masala goes well with naan bread, rice, or roti. It makes for a popular choice when it comes to family dinners, celebrations, and special occasions.

How to make Paneer Butter Masala?

Ingredients:

• 200 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons cream
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions to make Paneer Butter Masala at home:

• Heat one tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium heat.
• Add the paneer cubes and shallow fry them until they turn golden brown on all sides.
• Remove the paneer from the pan and set aside.
• In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
• Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Stir in it, and cook for another minute until the raw smell fades away.
• Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook till they become soft and mushy.
• Now add the red chilli powder, turmeric powder, ground coriander, and salt to the pan. Mix well and continue to cook for a few minutes until the spices fragrance.
• Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then, pour into a blender and blend to a fine paste.
• Pour the blended mixture back in the pan. Add the fried paneer cubes and garam masala to the pan and mix well.
• Add cream; stir gently until everything is all combined.
• Allow the Paneer Butter Masala to simmer on low heat for a few minutes, so that the flavors blend well.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves once done.
• Serve hot with naan bread, rice, or roti.

Enjoy the creamy goodness of Paneer Butter Masala, a true delight for your taste buds!

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