Creamy, Dreamy Butter Paneer: A Step-by-Step Recipe
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a rich and flavorful Indian delight? Look no further than this incredibly easy-to-follow butter paneer recipe. This dish is a staple in Indian cuisine, known for its creamy texture and irresistible taste. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is perfect for you. Let's dive in!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Adjust quantities as needed.
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For the Paneer:
- 250g paneer (Indian cheese), cubed into approximately 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 tsp garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee (clarified butter)
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For the Sauce:
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed or finely chopped
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp coriander powder
- 1/4 tsp cumin powder
- 1/4 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 100g butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Paneer: In a bowl, combine the cubed paneer with ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step helps the paneer absorb the flavors beautifully.
2. Sauté the Onions: Heat the oil or ghee in a large pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. This takes patience; don't rush this step!
3. Build the Flavor Base: Add ginger-garlic paste to the sautéed onions and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, to prevent burning.
4. Add the Tomatoes: Now, add the pureed or finely chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate from the mixture. This usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
5. Incorporate the Paneer: Gently add the marinated paneer cubes to the tomato mixture. Stir carefully to coat each piece evenly with the sauce. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring the paneer is heated through and slightly browned.
6. The Creamy Finish: Add the butter and heavy cream to the pan. Stir well to combine and create a rich, creamy sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) and fresh cilantro over the finished dish. Serve hot with naan bread, roti, or jeera rice. Enjoy the delightful explosion of flavors!
Tips for the Best Butter Paneer:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook the paneer in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the spice level: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your taste.
- Fresh ingredients make a difference: Using fresh ginger, garlic, and cilantro will significantly enhance the overall flavor.
- Experiment with variations: Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a tangy twist, or try adding peas or bell peppers for added texture and nutrients.
This butter paneer recipe is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to leave everyone wanting more. So, gather your ingredients and prepare for a culinary adventure! Happy cooking!
