Authentic Butter Paneer (India) – Creamy, Flavorful

Butter Paneer (India)  – Butter Paneer stands as a perfect example of India’s culinary diversity — a combination of bold flavors, velvety textures, and simple ingredients. The smooth, buttery sauce balances sweetness, tanginess, and creaminess, while the paneer absorbs the flavors, giving every bite a melt-in-the-mouth experience. Traditionally served with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice, it’s a crowd-pleaser suitable for weeknight dinners or festive celebrations.

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Recipe Overview

• Recipe Name: Butter Paneer (India)

• Cuisine: North Indian

• Course: Main Course

• Servings: 4

• Calories: 410 kcal per serving

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Active Time: 30 minutes

• Resting Time: 5 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Equipment

• Non-stick pan or kadhai

• Blender or immersion mixer

• Cutting board and knife

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Spatula

• Serving bowl

Ingredients

For the Gravy:

• 3 medium tomatoes (roughly chopped)

• 1 medium onion (sliced)

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 tablespoon oil

• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

• 10–12 cashew nuts (soaked for 15 minutes)

• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder

• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• 1 teaspoon cumin powder

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• Salt to taste

For the Paneer and Finishing:

• 200–250 grams paneer (cubed)

• 3 tablespoons fresh cream

• 1 tablespoon butter (for garnish)

• 1 teaspoon crushed kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)

Optional (for extra richness):

• 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (to balance acidity)

• ¼ cup milk (to adjust consistency)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Base

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a pan.

2. Add onions and sauté until they turn translucent.

3. Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until fragrant.

4. Now add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften completely.

5. Add cashew nuts and a pinch of salt.

6. Cook the mixture for about 8–10 minutes until everything blends well.

7. Allow it to cool slightly and then blend it into a smooth, creamy paste using a blender. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Butter Gravy

1. In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon butter.

2. Pour the blended tomato-cashew mixture back into the pan.

3. Add Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander powder.

4. Mix well and cook for 5–7 minutes on medium heat until the gravy thickens slightly and butter starts separating from the edges.

Step 3: Add the Paneer

1. Add paneer cubes to the simmering gravy.

2. Stir gently to coat them evenly in the sauce without breaking the cubes.

3. Add salt and garam masala.

4. If the gravy is too thick, add ¼ cup milk or water to adjust the consistency.

5. Simmer for 5 minutes so the paneer absorbs the flavors.

Step 4: Finish with Cream and Kasuri Methi

1. Reduce the flame to low.

2. Stir in fresh cream and crushed kasuri methi.

3. Add 1 teaspoon butter for a glossy finish.

4. Turn off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the Butter Paneer (India) into a serving bowl.

2. Garnish with a drizzle of cream and fresh coriander leaves.

3. Serve hot with naan, roti, paratha, or steamed basmati rice.

Tips for Perfect Butter Paneer

1. Use Fresh Paneer: Soft, fresh paneer enhances the dish’s creamy texture. If using store-bought paneer, soak it in warm water for 10 minutes before cooking.

2. Cashew Paste for Creaminess: Cashews are the secret behind that rich, velvety gravy texture — avoid skipping them.

3. Control the Spice Level: Adjust chili powder based on preference. Kashmiri red chili adds color without excessive heat.

4. Don’t Overcook Paneer: Paneer becomes chewy if cooked too long; simmer only for a few minutes after adding it to the gravy.

5. Butter and Cream Balance: Use real butter and fresh cream for authentic restaurant-style flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The beauty of Butter Paneer (India) lies in its harmonious blend of richness and subtle spices. The buttery tomato gravy creates a velvety base that perfectly complements the soft, melt-in-mouth paneer.

It’s not too spicy, making it ideal for family dinners, festive feasts, or special gatherings. This dish also pairs beautifully with Indian breads or rice, allowing the flavors to shine in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself to a comfort meal, Butter Paneer is a dish that never disappoints.

Conclusion

The Butter Paneer (India) recipe is the epitome of Indian comfort food — luxurious, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Its creamy butter-tomato gravy, delicate spices, and soft paneer cubes make it a timeless favorite across households and restaurants alike.