Creamy Butter Paneer

Welcome to our kitchen, where we demystify one of India’s most beloved and cherished dishes: Butter Paneer. This incredible recipe isn’t just easy to make; it’s a culinary journey that brings the rich, creamy, and utterly delightful flavors of an authentic Indian restaurant right into your home in just 30 minutes. As a staple in my half-Indian family, this dish holds a special place, consistently impressing with its depth of flavor and luxurious texture.

Butter Paneer in pan, glistening with rich, creamy sauce, ready to be served.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Butter Paneer Recipe

Imagine a dish so enticing, so bursting with mild spices and the fresh zing of ginger, that even the most discerning eaters come back for more. This is that dish! Our Butter Paneer (also known as Paneer Butter Masala) is a family favorite, particularly among the kids, who simply can’t get enough of its exquisite taste. Here’s why this recipe will become a treasured part of your culinary repertoire:

  • A Vegetarian Masterpiece: If you adore the classic Butter Chicken, prepare to fall in love with its equally delicious vegetarian counterpart. Butter Paneer uses the same iconic, rich, and velvety sauce, making it arguably one of the most irresistible Indian vegetarian recipes you’ll ever try.
  • Restaurant-Worthy Flavor at Home: The hallmark of this dish is its lush, silky sauce. Infused with a harmonious blend of aromatic spices, it achieves a depth of flavor and creamy texture that rivals, if not surpasses, your favorite Indian restaurant. It’s truly a flavor to die for!
  • Quick and Easy Preparation: Don’t let the complex flavors fool you; this recipe is surprisingly quick and straightforward. Crafted with everyday Indian spices you likely already have in your pantry, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner yet elegant enough for entertaining.
  • Maximally Flavorful Paneer: We take an extra step to ensure every cube of paneer is bursting with taste. By seasoning the paneer separately while the sauce simmers, it gets ample time to soak up maximum rich, delicious flavor, resulting in tender, succulent bites.
  • Customizable to Your Taste: Whether you prefer a milder curry or a dish with a fiery kick, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. Adjust the spices to suit your family’s preferences, making it a truly personal culinary experience.
  • Wholesome and Satisfying: Packed with protein from the paneer and vibrant flavors from fresh ingredients and spices, this dish is not only delicious but also wonderfully satisfying and nourishing.

Pair it with a fresh batch of warm, buttery homemade naan or fluffy basmati rice, and prepare to have your taste buds sing with joy. This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.

Butter paneer in a pan with homemade naan on the side, ready for dipping.

Essential Ingredients and Tools for Butter Paneer

Creating an exceptional Butter Paneer begins with selecting the right ingredients and having the necessary kitchen tools at hand. Let’s gather everything we need to bring this creamy, flavorful dish to life.

Fresh ingredients for Butter Paneer laid out on a kitchen counter: paneer, tomatoes, onions, ginger, garlic, and various spices.

Butter Paneer Ingredients: Crafting the Perfect Curry

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the layered flavors of our Butter Paneer. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why:

  • Paneer (12 oz package): The undisputed star of the dish. These firm, non-melting cheese cubes provide a wonderful texture and a good source of protein. For an unparalleled taste and impressive presentation, consider making your own homemade paneer. It’s surprisingly simple and yields a far superior, creamier result compared to most store-bought options, making your dish truly stand out.
  • Vegetable Oil (1 tbsp for paneer, ¼ cup for sauce): A neutral oil is essential for both marinating the paneer and sautéing the sauce base. It allows the other flavors to shine without imparting its own taste.
  • Lemon or Lime Juice (1 tbsp for paneer): A splash of citrus provides a bright, acidic counterpoint to the richness, awakening the flavors in the paneer marinade.
  • Garlic (1 tsp minced for paneer, 2 tbsp finely chopped for sauce): Essential for that pungent, aromatic depth that defines Indian cuisine. Freshly minced garlic delivers the best flavor.
  • Ginger (1 tbsp finely grated fresh for sauce): Adds a warm, spicy, and incredibly fresh kick. Using fresh ginger is highly recommended. For convenience, you can swap both fresh garlic and ginger for a good quality ginger-garlic paste.
  • Garam Masala (1 tsp for paneer, 2 tbsp for sauce): This aromatic blend of ground spices is the very heart of Indian cooking, providing warmth, complexity, and that unmistakable authentic flavor. It’s a foundational spice in Butter Paneer.
  • Turmeric (½ tsp for paneer): Not just for its beautiful golden color, turmeric also adds a subtle earthy note and is renowned for its health benefits.
  • Cayenne (½ tsp for paneer) or Kashmiri Red Chilli Powder: For a pleasant spicy kick. Kashmiri red chili powder offers a vibrant red color with a milder heat, making it a popular choice for authentic Indian dishes. Adjust to your desired level of spice.
  • Coarse Salt (½ tsp for paneer, 1½ tsp kosher salt for sauce): Crucial for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in both the paneer and the rich sauce.
  • Onion (2 cups chopped): As the backbone of the sauce, onions cook down slowly to a golden, mild sweetness. They essentially melt into the gravy, creating a natural thickening agent and contributing significant depth of flavor.
  • Paprika (2 tsp): Offers a mild, sweet heat and contributes to the beautiful reddish hue of the curry. If you prefer more heat, a small amount of regular red chili powder can be substituted.
  • Cinnamon (¼ tsp): Just a hint of this warm spice adds a subtle, sweet spiciness and incredible aroma, elevating the complexity of the sauce.
  • Diced Tomatoes (1 cup): I often use fresh cherry or grape tomatoes, finely chopped, as they’re convenient and always on hand. However, canned diced tomatoes or even good quality canned tomato puree work perfectly, contributing to the rich, tangy base of the sauce. If using canned puree, a pinch of baking soda can neutralize any excessive tang.
  • Heavy Cream (¾ cup, also known as whipping cream): This is where the “butter” in Butter Paneer truly shines. Heavy cream provides that lush, decadent texture and quickly thickens the sauce to a restaurant-quality consistency, making it a key ingredient for richness.
  • Butter (2 tbsp): A few tablespoons of butter are swirled in at the end to add a magnificent silky texture and unparalleled richness, contributing to the signature smoothness and flavor profile.
  • Cilantro (optional, for garnish): Fresh chopped cilantro offers a vibrant, herbaceous finish and a pop of color, though it can be omitted if you’re not a fan.
Close-up of whole fresh cayenne peppers, cayenne pepper powder, and a jar of ground cayenne pepper on a counter, illustrating spice options.

Notes on Indian Spices Used in Butter Paneer

Understanding the role of these spices is key to mastering Indian cuisine:

  • Garam Masala: This blend is a lifesaver, eliminating the need to source individual spices like coriander powder, cumin, cardamom, and cloves. It simplifies the process while delivering a complex, balanced flavor. Always use fresh, high-quality garam masala for the best results.
  • Red Chillies: For those who love an extra kick, feel free to add fresh or dried red chillies to the sauce while cooking. Adjust the quantity to your heat preference.
  • Whole Spices: To deepen the aromatic profile, consider adding a few whole spices to the oil before sautéing the onions. Options include a few green cardamom pods, a bay leaf, a couple of cloves, and/or a small cinnamon stick. Remember to remove them before blending the sauce for a smoother texture.
  • Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves): A pinch of Kasuri methi, added at the very end, offers a unique, slightly bitter, and incredibly authentic flavor that is characteristic of many North Indian curries, including this paneer butter masala recipe. It adds another layer of complexity that truly elevates the dish.

Essential Tools for a Smooth Cooking Experience

Having the right kitchen equipment will ensure your Butter Paneer preparation is efficient and enjoyable:

  • Mixing Bowl: Crucial for comfortably marinating the paneer cubes, ensuring they are evenly coated with spices.
  • Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven: An ideal vessel for developing the rich sauce. Its ample size allows for proper caramelization of onions and even simmering. A heavy-bottomed pan prevents sticking and ensures even heat distribution.
  • Immersion Blender (Optional but Recommended): For effortlessly blending the sauce into a smooth, luxurious puree directly in your cooking pot. This saves time and minimizes cleanup. If you don’t have one, a regular standing blender works too, but remember to transfer the hot liquid in batches and exercise extreme caution to avoid steam-related accidents. If you don’t mind a slightly rustic texture, you can even skip the pureeing step altogether; the soft onions will mostly dissolve, and some prefer that slightly chunky consistency.
Finely diced onions in a food chopper, ready for cooking.

Variations and Substitutions to Explore

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for delightful variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

  • Coconut Milk: For a lighter take or a dairy-free option, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk. It imparts a subtle tropical sweetness and maintains a wonderful creamy texture.
  • Halloumi or Firm Tofu: If paneer is unavailable or you’re looking for an alternative, firm halloumi cheese or extra-firm tofu are excellent substitutes. Halloumi offers a similar chewy texture, but remember to reduce the salt in the recipe as it’s naturally quite salty. For a completely vegan version, use firm tofu and swap the dairy cream for cashew cream or coconut cream, ensuring all other dairy products (like butter) are plant-based.
  • Sweetness Balance: Some Butter Paneer recipes incorporate a touch of sugar or honey to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you find your sauce too tangy, add a teaspoon of sugar or a date paste for natural sweetness.

How to Make Restaurant-Style Butter Paneer Masala: A Step-by-Step Guide

Achieving restaurant-quality Paneer Butter Masala at home is much simpler than you might imagine. Follow this easy, step-by-step guide to create a creamy, comforting, and absolutely irresistible dish.

Step 1: Preparing and Marinating the Paneer for Maximum Flavor

Our journey to perfect Butter Paneer begins with preparing the star ingredient, the paneer.

Hand gently tossing paneer cubes in a bowl with marinade ingredients, ensuring even coating.

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the vegetable oil, fresh lemon or lime juice, minced garlic, garam masala, turmeric, cayenne pepper (or Kashmiri red chili powder for less heat), and salt. Whisk these ingredients together to form a vibrant, aromatic marinade.

Carefully add the cubed paneer to this mixture. Gently toss the paneer cubes until each piece is evenly coated with the rich spice blend. It’s easiest to do this with your hands, ensuring every surface gets seasoned without breaking the delicate cheese. This crucial step, often overlooked, infuses the paneer with incredible depth and flavor even before it enters the sauce, making a significant difference to the final dish. You can let the paneer marinate while you proceed with the other recipe steps – no need for extended marination, though a little extra time won’t hurt!

Step 2: Building the Aromatic Sauce Base

Now, let’s create the foundational flavors of our butter masala sauce.

Onions, garlic, and ginger sautéing in a large saucepan, creating an aromatic base for the butter paneer gravy.

Melt ¼ cup of vegetable oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onions. This is where patience is key for developing rich flavor. Slowly cook the onions, stirring occasionally, until they become beautifully golden and deeply caramelized. This process typically takes about 20 minutes. If they start to crisp or brown too quickly, simply lower the heat to allow for gentle caramelization. This slow cooking method sweetens the onions naturally, which is essential for the authentic taste of Butter Paneer.

Step 3: Infusing with Aromatics and Spices

Once the onions have achieved their golden hue, it’s time to introduce the powerful aromatics and spices.

A hand stirring a vibrant blend of spices into the sautéed onion base for butter paneer sauce.

Add the finely chopped garlic and grated fresh ginger to the caramelized onions. Sauté for approximately 1 minute, or until their fragrant aromas fill your kitchen. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Next, stir in the remaining garam masala, paprika, and cinnamon. Continue to cook for another minute, gently warming the spices. This crucial step, known as “blooming” the spices, deepens their flavors and releases their full aromatic potential, making the sauce incredibly fragrant and complex.

Step 4: Creating the Creamy Tomato Base

Now, we build the luscious tomato-based gravy that defines Butter Paneer.

Diced tomatoes and heavy cream being added to the simmering spice and onion mixture for butter paneer sauce.

Add the diced tomatoes to the pan. Let everything simmer together for about 2 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and their natural sweetness and acidity to meld with the spices. This also helps to cook out any raw tomato flavor.

After simmering, add the heavy cream to the mixture. Carefully puree the entire sauce using an immersion blender until it is wonderfully smooth and creamy. This step is essential for achieving that characteristic velvety, rich gravy of Butter Paneer. If you’re using a standing blender, remember to work in small batches and hold the lid down firmly with a towel to prevent hot liquids from splattering due to steam buildup.

An immersion blender actively pureeing the butter paneer sauce in a saucepan until smooth.

Step 5: Simmering to Perfection and Serving Your Butter Paneer

We’re almost there! It’s time to bring all the elements together for the grand finale.

A package of fresh paneer cheese, cubed and ready for cooking.

Return the smooth sauce to your saucepan and bring it back to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Stir in the butter until it melts completely, enriching the sauce with its luxurious flavor and sheen. If the sauce appears too thick for your liking, you can add up to 4 tablespoons of water, a little at a time, to reach your desired consistency.

Finally, gently stir in the marinated paneer cubes. Allow them to cook in the sauce for just about 2 minutes, or until they are heated through. Overcooking paneer can make it tough, so be mindful of the cooking time.

Garnish your exquisite Butter Paneer with fresh cilantro, if desired, for a final touch of freshness. Your restaurant-worthy Butter Paneer is now ready to be savored!

Everything You Need to Know About Paneer

Paneer is more than just cheese; it’s a culinary cornerstone in Indian cuisine. Understanding its nature and how to work with it can elevate your dishes.

Essentially, paneer is a fresh, non-melting Indian cheese, often likened to strained ricotta or Indian cottage cheese. Its distinct characteristics—chewy, milky, bouncy, and incredibly absorbent—make it exceptionally addictive and versatile. It doesn’t melt, holding its shape beautifully even when heated, which makes it perfect for curries and stir-fries.

Making paneer at home is a surprisingly simple and rewarding process. It involves curdling boiled milk with an acidic agent like lemon juice or vinegar, then straining and pressing the curds into a firm block. The homemade version often boasts a superior creamy texture and fresher taste. If you’re interested in crafting your own, hop over to my detailed guide: How to Make Paneer at Home: My Foolproof Step-by-Step Guide.

For those seeking a quicker option, fear not! Paneer is increasingly accessible. You can easily find it in the dairy or international foods section of most well-stocked grocery stores, and it’s a guaranteed find at any Indian grocery store. Look for firm, fresh blocks, typically packed in water.

Ingredients for marinating paneer laid out: oil, lemon juice, garlic, garam masala, turmeric, cayenne, and salt.

Tips to Elevate Store-Bought Paneer

While homemade paneer is fantastic, store-bought options are convenient. However, they can sometimes be a little bland or rubbery. Don’t worry; with a few simple tricks, you can significantly enhance its flavor and texture:

1. Marinate for Enhanced Flavor

This is arguably the most impactful step. A quick marinade infuses the paneer with vibrant spices and moisture, preventing it from tasting plain. Combine spices like turmeric, chili powder, and salt with a little oil and a splash of lemon or lime juice. Toss the paneer cubes in this mixture and let it rest for at least 30 minutes, or even longer, while you prepare the rest of your curry sauce. This not only adds layers of flavor but also gives the paneer a beautiful hue. For a comprehensive guide, check out my article on How to Marinate Paneer.

Marinated paneer cubes being added gently to the simmering butter paneer sauce in a pan.

2. Pan-Fry for Perfect Texture

This is an optional but highly recommended step, especially if you enjoy a contrasting texture. Pan-frying the marinated paneer before adding it to the sauce creates a delightful golden-brown exterior that’s slightly crispy, while the interior remains wonderfully soft. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the paneer cubes in a single layer and fry until they are golden on all sides. Remove them and set aside before incorporating them into the finished sauce. This step adds another dimension of flavor and texture.

3. Soak in Warm Water for Tenderness

If your store-bought paneer feels overly firm or rubbery, a simple soak can work wonders. Cut the paneer into desired cubes, then place them in a bowl of warm water (not hot) for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This process helps to soften the cheese and makes it more porous, allowing it to better absorb the delicious flavors of your curry sauce. Gently pat it dry before marinating or adding to the dish.

Looking for more delicious ways to enjoy this versatile cheese? Don’t miss these 52+ delicious Paneer Recipes for endless inspiration!

A complete Indian meal featuring Butter Paneer, Palak Paneer, and fluffy Naan bread.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Paneer Butter Masala

Butter Paneer is a rich and flavorful dish that deserves equally delicious accompaniments. Here are some classic and delightful options to complete your Indian feast:

  • Indian Flatbreads: The creamy sauce of Paneer Butter Masala is practically begging to be scooped up with warm, freshly baked Indian flatbreads. Popular choices include soft Roti, tender Chapati, indulgent Butter Naan, or flaky Paratha. Each offers a unique texture that complements the curry beautifully.
  • Fragrant Rice: A bed of perfectly cooked rice is an absolute must to soak up every drop of that luscious sauce. My viral basmati rice recipe, passed down from my Indian mother-in-law, offers a game-changing method for achieving fluffy, separate grains every time.
  • Non-Vegetarian Protein Dishes: If you’re hosting a larger dinner party and want to offer a variety, Butter Paneer pairs wonderfully with other Indian meat dishes. Consider serving alongside savory Tandoori Chicken, juicy Beef Kafta, spicy Lamb Vindaloo, aromatic Chicken 65, or rich Lamb Chops in Fenugreek Cream Curry.
  • Complementary Vegetable Sides: To create a balanced and veggie-ful meal, add some flavorful vegetable dishes. Try crisp Indian Coconut Green Beans, the classic spinach and paneer dishes like Palak Paneer or Saag Paneer, or a refreshing Yogurt Cucumber Salad (Raita) to cut through the richness.
  • Appetizers to Start: Elevate your meal by starting with a delightful appetizer. Crispy homemade Potato Samosas are always a crowd-pleaser, or for a non-vegetarian option, my favorite Chicken Samosa recipe is fantastic.

Effortless Entertaining: Make-Ahead Butter Paneer Instructions

Planning a special meal or just want to get ahead? Our Butter Paneer recipe is perfect for making in advance, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience when it’s time to serve. This time-saving tip makes it an ideal dish for entertaining:

  • Prepare the Sauce in Advance: You can prepare the entire butter masala sauce up to 3 days ahead of time. Simply cook the sauce according to the instructions, but **do not add the heavy cream or the paneer cubes** at this stage. Once the sauce has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate.
  • Finishing on Serving Day: On the day you plan to serve, simply reheat the prepared sauce in a saucepan over medium-low heat until it comes to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, stir in the heavy whipping cream and the marinated paneer cubes. Let it cook for just about 2 minutes, or until the paneer is heated through and the sauce is perfectly creamy. Garnish and serve immediately for a fresh and delicious meal!
Drizzling heavy cream onto the finished Butter Paneer Masala in a serving bowl, creating beautiful swirls.

Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Paneer

New to Butter Paneer or have some lingering questions? Here are quick, comprehensive answers to common inquiries to ensure your cooking experience is a success.

What is Butter Paneer made of?

Butter Paneer, also known as Paneer Butter Masala, is a beloved North Indian vegetarian curry. It features tender paneer (Indian cheese) cubes enveloped in a rich, creamy, and mildly spiced tomato-based sauce, typically enriched with butter and heavy cream. It’s renowned for its luscious texture and harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Can I use canned tomato puree instead of fresh diced tomatoes?

Absolutely! Canned tomato purée is a perfectly acceptable and often preferred alternative for the sauce. It typically offers a thicker consistency and can contribute to a richer gravy. If you find the sauce too tangy for your taste after adding canned tomatoes, a small pinch of baking soda can be added to neutralize the sourness without affecting the flavor profile.

Why does paneer sometimes break while cooking?

Paneer can break or crumble if its dairy protein bonds unravel due to excessive heat, acidity, or aggressive stirring. To prevent this, ensure you add the paneer only at the very end of the cooking process, letting it simmer for just a couple of minutes until heated through. Keep the heat low during this final stage and stir minimally and gently.

What is the difference between Paneer Butter Masala and Paneer Tikka Masala?

While both are popular paneer dishes, they differ significantly. Paneer Butter Masala (Butter Paneer) is characterized by its rich, creamy, and milder tomato-based sauce, often with a hint of sweetness, where the paneer is typically added directly to the simmering gravy. Paneer Tikka Masala, on the other hand, features paneer cubes that are first marinated in yogurt and spices, then grilled or pan-fried (tikka style) for a smoky flavor before being simmered in a spicier, often tangier, onion-tomato masala sauce that tends to be less creamy and buttery than its counterpart.

Can you freeze Paneer Butter Masala?

Yes, this paneer butter masala recipe freezes beautifully! To freeze, ensure the curry has cooled completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to six months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the container overnight in the refrigerator, then gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s warmed through.

What is paneer made of?

Paneer is a fresh cheese made from curdled milk. The process involves heating milk to a boil and then adding an acidic agent, such as lemon juice or vinegar, which causes the milk to curdle. The resulting curds are then separated from the whey, pressed, and molded into a firm block of cheese.

What American cheese is similar to paneer?

While there’s no exact American equivalent to paneer, farmer’s cheese is the closest in terms of texture and mild flavor. Both are fresh, unaged, non-melting cheeses that can be cubed and used similarly in recipes. Ricotta salata, a pressed, firm ricotta, also shares some textural similarities but is often saltier.

Can I make butter paneer without heavy cream?

Yes, you can absolutely make butter paneer without heavy cream for a lighter or dairy-free option. Excellent substitutes include full-fat coconut milk or a homemade cashew cream. These alternatives will still provide a rich, creamy texture and delightful flavor.

How can I make vegan butter paneer?

To create a delicious vegan butter paneer, replace the paneer with firm or extra-firm tofu (pressed and cubed). For the creamy sauce, use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy cream. Ensure that any butter used in the recipe is plant-based, and verify that your garam masala blend doesn’t contain any hidden dairy ingredients.

Is it necessary to marinate paneer before cooking?

While marinating paneer isn’t strictly necessary, it is highly recommended to significantly enhance its flavor and prevent it from tasting bland. Even a short marination of 15-30 minutes can make a noticeable difference, allowing the paneer to absorb the spices and become more tender and flavorful within the curry.

Adding a generous pat of butter to the simmering butter paneer masala sauce.

More Favorite Creamy Indian Recipes to Savor

With my husband being Indian, my passion for exploring the vibrant flavors and rich culinary traditions of India has grown immensely. I’ve gathered a collection of love-filled and flavor-packed creations that I believe you will adore, especially if you appreciate creamy, comforting Indian dishes:

  • Best-Ever Creamy Malai Kofta: Indulge in these delectable fried potato and paneer dumplings bathed in a rich, creamy gravy.
  • Madras Lentils with Cream Sauce: A hearty and comforting lentil dish, simmered to perfection and finished with a touch of cream.
  • Curried Lentils with Coconut Milk: A fragrant and subtly sweet lentil curry, offering a dairy-free creamy option.
  • Coconut Curry Chicken: Tender chicken pieces simmered in a luscious, aromatic coconut milk-based curry.
  • Chicken Korma: A classic North Indian dish featuring succulent chicken in a rich, mild, and incredibly creamy cashew-based sauce.

And to truly complete your Indian culinary adventure, don’t forget to sip on Amma’s Authentic Homemade Indian Chai while you cook or relax after your meal.

Butter paneer in a pan with naan.
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5 from 12 votes

The Best Butter Paneer Recipe (Restaurant Flavor!)

By:
Jennifer Pallian BSc, RD
This 30-minute Butter Paneer recipe is one of my half-Indian family’s most cherished dishes. Rich, creamy and rivals an Indian restaurant.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Servings:
6

Ingredients

For the Paneer:

  • 12 oz package paneer
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice
  • 1 tsp minced garlic or ¼ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • ½ tsp cayenne or kashmiri red chilli powder
  • ½ tsp salt

​For the Butter Masala Sauce:

  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups chopped onion
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped garlic
  • 1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger
  • 2 tbsp garam masala
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon
  • ​1 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • ¾ cup heavy cream aka whipping cream
  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions

​Marinate the Paneer:

  • In a bowl, mix the oil, lemon juice, garlic, garam masala, turmeric, cayenne powder and salt.
  • Add the paneer cubes to the bowl.
  • Gently toss them with the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Be careful not to break the paneer. I find it easiest to use my hands.

​Make the Sauce:

  • Heat oil over medium heat in a large saucepan or dutch oven.
  • Add onions and slowly cook until golden, reducing heat if they are getting crispy or browning quickly. This is an important flavour-building step, don’t rush it.
  • Add garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Stir in garam masala, paprika, cinnamon and salt; cook 1 minute more.
  • Add tomatoes and cook 2 minutes.
  • Add cream and carefully puree using an immersion blender (or standing blender, but do it in batches or the steam will blow the top off).
  • Return sauce to saucepan and bring to a simmer. Stir in butter. Add up to 4 tbsp of water if the sauce is too thick.
  • Gently stir in paneer and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes.

Notes

  • To make it ahead: Prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance without adding cream or paneer and refrigerate it in an airtight container. On the day of serving, reheat it until it comes to a gentle simmer then add the paneer cubes and heavy whipping cream.
  • For a lightened-up or dairy-free recipe, you can replace it with coconut milk to achieve richness and consistency.
  • You may substitute the paneer with cubed halloumi or firm tofu. If using halloumi, cut the salt in half to account for the saltiness of the cheese.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 657kcal |
Carbohydrates: 19g |
Protein: 20g |
Fat: 58g |
Saturated Fat: 33g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 10g |
Trans Fat: 0.5g |
Cholesterol: 147mg |
Sodium: 1311mg |
Potassium: 469mg |
Fiber: 4g |
Sugar: 8g |
Vitamin A: 1652IU |
Vitamin C: 18mg |
Calcium: 591mg |
Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.





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