Description
Butter Paneer, also known as Paneer Makhani, is a rich and creamy Indian vegetarian main dish featuring soft cubes of paneer cheese simmered in a buttery tomato sauce infused with aromatic spices. This easy one-pan recipe combines classic ingredients like butter, garlic, ginger, garam masala, and cream to create the flavorful and indulgent taste reminiscent of authentic takeout but made at home in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced or grated
Spices and Sauce
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 14 ounces tomato puree
- 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
- 1-2 red chili peppers (optional for spicier dish)
Dairy and Paneer
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or to taste)
- 1 pound paneer, cut into bite size cubes
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Sauté Onion: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook until softened and beginning to brown, about 3 to 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation for the sauce.
- Add Garlic, Ginger, and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, ground cumin, garam masala, and turmeric. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to toast the spices and amplify their aromas without burning.
- Add Tomato Puree and Paprika: Pour in the tomato puree and sprinkle the paprika. If using, add the red chili peppers now for added heat. Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer gently until it darkens and thickens, typically 10 to 15 minutes. This deepens the sauce’s flavor and achieves the signature rich texture.
- Finish Sauce with Yogurt and Cream: Remove the skillet from heat and whisk in the Greek yogurt followed by the heavy whipping cream. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste and desired creaminess. This step cools the sauce slightly and creates a luscious, velvety texture.
- Add Paneer Cubes: Gently fold in the paneer cubes, ensuring they are coated evenly with the creamy sauce. The residual heat will warm the paneer perfectly without overcooking it.
- Serve: Serve the Butter Paneer hot, ideally over steamed basmati rice or your favorite Indian bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Use full-fat Greek yogurt and heavy cream for the richest sauce and authentic texture.
- The optional red chili peppers can be adjusted or omitted based on your preferred spice level.
- Paneer can be store-bought or homemade; ensure it is cut into uniform cubes for even cooking.
- Garam masala adds a signature warmth; if unavailable, blend your own mix of ground cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, and coriander.
- This recipe is naturally gluten free and suitable for a low carb diet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
