Delicious Paneer Butter Masala Recipe with Cookware tips

The Paneer Butter Masala recipe is one of the most loved Indian dishes. Soft pieces of paneer are cooked in a rich, buttery tomato gravy that tastes smooth and creamy. The curry is mild, tasty, and goes perfectly with naan, roti, or even plain steamed rice.

Making the Paneer Butter Masala recipe at home is quite easy. You can decide how much spice, cream, or butter to add, depending on what your family likes. With the right pan and a few simple steps, this dish can be ready for dinner, a festival, or even a weekend meal.

The best part about a homemade Paneer Butter Masala recipe is that it feels fresh and healthy. You know exactly what ingredients go into it, and every bite is full of flavor. It’s a simple dish that always makes everyone happy at the table.

Why Paneer Butter Masala Wins Hearts:

Paneer Butter Masala has won hearts around the world because it perfectly balances flavors, offering a creamy, mild taste that appeals to everyone. Children, adults, and even people new to Indian cuisine find it irresistible.

The secret is a velvety gravy made from onions, tomatoes, cashews, and a carefully selected blend of spices. Adding butter and cream at the end gives the curry a luxurious, rich texture. This is why Paneer Butter Masala is a favorite on restaurant menus everywhere.

Ingredients Needed:

To prepare this recipe at home, gather these fresh and simple ingredients:

200 g paneer (cottage cheese), cut into cubes
2 medium onions (roughly chopped)
2 large tomatoes (roughly chopped)
2 green chilies
1-inch ginger piece
6–7 garlic cloves
10–12 cashews (soaked in warm water)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp oil
1 bay leaf
1-inch cinnamon stick
2 green cardamoms
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp red chili powder
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp coriander powder
1 tsp garam masala
½ tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
2 tbsp fresh cream
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Paneer Butter Masala Recipe:

Step 1 – Make the Gravy Base :

Heat oil in a non-stick kadai or pan.
Add bay leaf, cinnamon, cardamom, and cumin seeds. Let them release aroma.
Add onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook until onions turn golden.
Add tomatoes and sauté until soft.
Toss in cashews, then turn off the flame. Once cooled, blend into a smooth paste.

Step 2 – Cook the Curry :

Heat butter in the same kadai.
Add the paste and cook for 5–6 minutes on medium heat.
Mix in turmeric, chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.
Stir until oil separates from the sides.

Step 3 – Add Paneer and Finish :

Gently drop in paneer cubes.
Add garam masala and kasuri methi.
Pour in fresh cream for richness.
Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Your homemade Paneer Butter Masala Recipe is now ready to serve.

Cookware Tips for Better Results

Cooking this recipe becomes much easier with the right tools. Here are some cookware tips:

Non-Stick Kadai – Prevents sticking and burning of masala.
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High-Speed Mixer Grinder – A must for smooth gravy.
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Wooden or Silicone Spatula – Gentle on non-stick cookware.
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Cast Iron Pan – Ideal for a smoky, restaurant-style flavor.
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Health Benefits of Paneer Butter Masala

Although creamy and rich, this recipe offers some nutritional benefits when enjoyed in moderation:

Protein Power – Paneer is packed with protein for muscle health.
Calcium Source – Supports strong bones and teeth.
Good Fats – Butter and cashews provide energy.
Customizable – Can be made lighter with low-fat cream or homemade paneer.

Best Ways to Serve Paneer Butter Masala

This curry is versatile and pairs with a variety of Indian staples:

Butter naan or garlic naan for a restaurant-style meal
Jeera rice or steamed basmati rice for a simple combo
Parathas for a filling lunch or dinner
As a side with pulao or biryani for festive occasions

For a grand touch, serve in a copper-bottom bowl with a swirl of cream on top.

FAQs on Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

1. Can cream be skipped in this recipe?
Yes, cream can be replaced with cashew paste or milk, though it won’t be as rich.

2. How to keep paneer cubes soft?
Soak paneer in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to the curry.

3. Can Paneer Butter Masala be made vegan?
Yes, replace paneer with tofu, butter with vegan butter, and cream with coconut cream.

4. How long does this curry last?
It stays fresh for 2 days in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of milk before serving.

5. What’s the difference between Paneer Butter Masala and Shahi Paneer?
Paneer Butter Masala is tangy and tomato-based, while Shahi Paneer is sweeter and nut-based.

6. Can I freeze Paneer Butter Masala?
Yes, freeze only the gravy. Add paneer fresh when reheating.

7. Why does my curry taste bitter?
Burnt onions or overcooked spices cause bitterness. Always cook on medium flame.

8. Which cookware works best?
A heavy-bottom non-stick or cast iron kadai ensures even cooking and authentic taste.

Final Thoughts

Paneer Butter Masala Recipe is more than just food – it’s a celebration of Indian flavors. Creamy, buttery, and mildly spiced, it brings comfort to every meal. With the right cookware and a little patience, preparing this dish at home becomes an enjoyable experience.

If you love experimenting in the kitchen, don’t miss this guide too: How to Make Sandwich at Home with Cookware Tips. It’s a quick snack idea that complements heavier meals like Paneer Butter Masala perfectly.

So, the next time cravings strike, try this Paneer Butter Masala Recipe. Serve it with naan or rice, garnish with cream, and enjoy restaurant-style flavors right in your kitchen.

Paneer Butter Masala Recipe – Creamy, Flavorful & Restaurant-Style