How to Make Paneer Butter Masala at Home – Restaurant Style Recipe

🍛 Introduction

Paneer Butter Masala – just the name makes our mouth water!
It’s rich, creamy, flavorful, and one of the most loved Indian vegetarian dishes. Whether you’re cooking for guests, preparing for a special dinner, or simply craving something indulgent, this restaurant-style paneer butter masala recipe is all you need.

Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that tastes better than any restaurant version – and yes, it’s easier than you think!

🧀 What is Paneer Butter Masala?

Paneer Butter Masala (also called “Butter Paneer”) is a classic North Indian dish where paneer cubes (Indian cottage cheese) are simmered in a smooth, creamy, tomato-based gravy with butter, cream, and aromatic spices. It has a mild sweetness, rich texture, and goes perfectly with naan, paratha, or rice.

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of all ingredients for making restaurant-style paneer butter masala at home:

🔸 For the Gravy Base:

4 medium tomatoes (roughly chopped)
1 medium onion (optional, for slight depth)
1-inch piece of ginger
4–5 garlic cloves
2 tablespoons cashew nuts
1–2 green chilies (optional)
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon oil

🔸 For the Paneer Curry:

200–250g paneer (cubed)
1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
½ teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon coriander powder
Salt to taste
½ teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dry fenugreek leaves)
3 tablespoons fresh cream
Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance taste)
Extra butter (1 tbsp) for finishing

🔥 Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato-Cashew Base

Heat 1 tbsp oil + 1 tbsp butter in a pan.
Add chopped tomatoes, onion, garlic, ginger, green chili, and cashews.
Sauté everything for 6–8 minutes till tomatoes soften and raw smell disappears.
Cool the mixture slightly and blend it into a smooth paste using little water.

Step 2: Cook the Gravy

In the same pan, heat 1 tbsp butter.
Add the tomato-cashew paste and cook for 6–7 minutes on medium flame.
Add red chili powder, turmeric, coriander powder, and salt.
Mix and cook until the masala thickens and releases oil from sides.

Step 3: Add Paneer and Finish the Dish

Add ½ cup water (adjust consistency).
Add paneer cubes and gently mix. Simmer for 4–5 minutes.
Add cream, kasuri methi (crushed), sugar, and garam masala.
Stir gently and cook for 2–3 more minutes on low heat.
Add a final dollop of butter on top and garnish with fresh coriander.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Best With: Butter naan, garlic naan, plain paratha, jeera rice, steamed basmati rice
Side Pairing: Cucumber raita, salad, papad
Drink Pairing: Sweet lassi, mango lassi, masala soda

✅ Tips for Perfect Restaurant-Style Taste

Use Kashmiri chili powder for rich red color without extreme heat.
Cashews make the gravy creamy; don’t skip!
Always sauté masala till it releases oil – that’s the flavor key.
For extra richness, add a spoon of honey instead of sugar.
Soak paneer in warm water before adding to curry for soft texture.

🍳 Variations You Can Try

Jain Version: Skip onion & garlic completely.
Vegan Version: Use tofu instead of paneer, coconut cream instead of dairy.
Spicy Version: Add green chilies + crushed black pepper for heat.

🛒 Storage & Reheating

Store in the fridge for 2–3 days in an airtight container.
Reheat on low flame; add a little milk or water to adjust consistency.
Avoid microwaving directly – paneer becomes chewy.

❓ FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can I make this recipe without cream?
Yes! Use full-fat milk or cashew paste for similar richness.

Q2. Is this recipe healthy?
It’s rich, so consume in moderation. You can reduce butter/cream for a lighter version.

Q3. Can I use store-bought paneer?
Absolutely. Just soak it in hot water for 5 mins before cooking for softness.

BHtab

How to Make Paneer Butter Masala at Home – Restaurant Style Recipe

🍛 Introduction

🧀 What is Paneer Butter Masala?