Paneer Butter Masala – Vegetarian Delight in 25 Minutes
Who says vegetarian food can’t be luxurious? This Paneer Butter Masala proves otherwise – creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, it’s the vegetarian answer to butter chicken. And the best part? It comes together in just 25 minutes with Masaliyo’s aromatic spice blends doing all the work.
Why This Dish Wins Every Time
Paneer Butter Masala is the ultimate crowd-pleaser – perfect for dinner parties, family meals, or when you want to treat yourself. Our quick method ensures the paneer stays soft and creamy while the gravy develops deep, complex flavors thanks to Masaliyo’s fresh ground spices.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Gravy Base:
- 250g paneer, cubed
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 4 tomatoes, pureed
- 10-12 cashews, soaked
- 1 tbsp Masaliyo Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder
- 1 tsp Masaliyo Garam Masala
- 1 tsp Masaliyo Coriander Powder
- ½ tsp Masaliyo Turmeric Powder
For the Creamy Finish:
- ½ cup fresh cream
- 1 tbsp Masaliyo Kasoori Methi
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Heat butter and oil. Sauté onions until translucent. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Gravy
Add tomato puree and all Masaliyo spices. Cook for 8-10 minutes until oil separates and the mixture thickens.
Step 3: Creamy Transformation
Add soaked cashews and blend into a smooth paste. Return to pan and add ½ cup water.
Step 4: Final Touch
Add paneer cubes, fresh cream, kasoori methi, and sugar. Simmer for 3-4 minutes. Garnish with cilantro.
Secrets to Perfect Paneer Butter Masala
- Don’t overcook paneer – Add at the end to prevent rubbery texture
- Cashews are essential – They create the signature creamy texture
- Kashmiri chilli powder gives that beautiful color without too much heat
- Crush kasoori methi between palms to release maximum flavor
- Balance with sugar – Cuts the acidity from tomatoes perfectly
Why This Recipe Works with Masaliyo Spices
The magic of Paneer Butter Masala lies in the delicate balance of spices. Our Masaliyo Garam Masala is specially crafted to complement creamy dishes without overpowering them. The fresh grinding process ensures each spice releases its full aroma, creating layers of flavor that pre-packaged spices can’t match.
Customize Your Paneer Butter Masala
- Extra creamy – Add 2 tbsp more cream
- Healthier version – Use yogurt instead of cream
- Spicy kick – Add ½ tsp Masaliyo Red Chilli Powder
- Smoky flavor – Use the dhungar method with hot coal
- With vegetables – Add bell peppers or peas
Perfect Pairing Suggestions
- With laccha paratha – Flaky and buttery
- With jeera rice – Simple and elegant
- With garlic naan – Restaurant-style combo
- With plain roti – Let the paneer shine
- As a pizza topping – Unexpected but delicious
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without cashews?
Yes! Use 2 tbsp melon seeds or ¼ cup soaked almonds as alternatives.
How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
Add cream at the end and don’t boil after adding. Keep heat on low.
Can I use tofu instead of paneer?
Absolutely! Use firm tofu for a vegan version.
How long does it stay fresh?
3 days in refrigerator. The flavors deepen overnight.
Ready to Create Restaurant Magic?
Elevate your vegetarian cooking with Masaliyo’s premium spice collection and experience the difference fresh spices make in every creamy bite!