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Paneer Butter Masala Recipe | Creamy Indian Curry Dish
Indian · Dinner

Paneer Butter Masala Recipe | Creamy Indian Curry Dish

Learn how to make rich and creamy paneer butter masala at home with simple ingredients. This popular Indian dinner recipe is flavorful, buttery, and perfect with naan or rice.

Prep
15 min
Cook
25 min
Serves
3
Difficulty
Medium

Method

1

Soften Paneer

Cut paneer into even cubes and lightly soak them in warm water for 10 minutes to keep them soft and fresh.
2

Aromatic Sauté

Heat butter and oil in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown and soft, releasing a sweet aroma.

Chef stirring creamy paneer butter masala in a black iron skillet
3

Ginger-Garlic Base

Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1–2 minutes until the raw smell disappears and the mixture becomes fragrant.
4

Tomato Reduction

Pour in the tomato puree and cook on medium heat for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the mixture thickens and oil starts separating from the sides.
5

Spice Blend

Add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, sugar, and salt. Mix well so the spices blend into the gravy evenly.
6

Cashew Richness

Add the cashew paste and stir continuously to create a smooth, rich, and creamy texture in the gravy.
7

Gravy Simmer

Pour a little water if needed to adjust consistency and let the gravy simmer for another 5 minutes on low heat.
8

Paneer Integration

Gently add the paneer cubes into the gravy and mix carefully so they do not break. Let them simmer for 3–4 minutes to absorb flavor.
9

Silky Gloss

Stir in fresh cream and mix gently until the gravy becomes silky, rich, and glossy in appearance.

Top-down view of rich orange paneer gravy with cream swirl and coriander garnish
10

Garnish

Turn off the heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
11

Perfect Serving

Serve hot with naan, roti, or basmati rice for the best taste.

Cook’s tips

  • Do not overcook the paneer in the gravy or it will become rubbery.
  • Using homemade tomato puree gives a fresher and more vibrant color to the gravy.
  • A pinch of dried fenugreek leaves (Kasuri Methi) added at the end enhances the restaurant-style aroma.

Recipe notes

Experience the legendary buttery richness of authentic Indian comfort food! Close-up of tender paneer cubes in a rich orange butter masala gravy

Explore the aromatic world of Indian grains with our Authentic Chicken Biryani for a complete subcontinental feast!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use tofu?

Yes, tofu is a great vegan alternative, though the texture and flavor profile will differ slightly.

How can I make it spicier?

You can add more red chili powder or slit green chilies during the onion sauté step.

Pairs well with

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