Paneer Butter Masala
Cubes of paneer (Indian cheese) cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce, enriched with butter.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
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Paneer Butter Masala is believed to have originated in Delhi, India, in the 1950s. It's a relatively modern dish, born out of the creative experimentation of chefs seeking to cater to diverse palates, particularly those who preferred milder, richer flavors compared to traditional spicy curries. It evolved alongside the popularization of paneer as a widely accepted ingredient.
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Paneer Butter Masala holds a significant place in Indian cuisine and culture, particularly as a vegetarian option that's both comforting and celebratory.
Vegetarian Staple
It's a popular choice for vegetarians, especially during festive occasions and celebrations, providing a rich and satisfying alternative to meat-based dishes.
Restaurant Favorite
Paneer Butter Masala is a staple dish in Indian restaurants worldwide, often considered a 'safe' and accessible option for those unfamiliar with Indian cuisine.
Party and Wedding Food
It is frequently featured on the menus of Indian weddings and parties because it is easy to eat with naan or rice and has widespread appeal.
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Paneer Butter Masala is characterized by its rich, creamy, and subtly sweet flavor profile, balanced with a touch of tanginess and aromatic spices.
The dominant flavor comes from the creamy tomato-based sauce, which is enriched with butter and often cream or cashew paste for extra richness. Spices such as ginger, garlic, garam masala, chili powder (for a subtle kick), and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) contribute to the aromatic complexity. The paneer itself provides a mild, milky flavor that absorbs the sauce beautifully. The sweetness is balanced by the acidity of the tomatoes and a touch of lemon juice or vinegar, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Tomato Base Quality
Use high-quality, ripe tomatoes for the base. Roasting the tomatoes beforehand can enhance their sweetness and depth of flavor.
Paneer Softness
Soaking the paneer in warm water before adding it to the sauce helps keep it soft and prevents it from becoming rubbery. Lightly frying or grilling the paneer before adding it to the sauce also adds texture.
Kasuri Methi
Don't skip the kasuri methi! Rubbing it between your palms before adding it releases its aroma and enhances the overall flavor.
Creaminess
For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of cashew paste or almond paste to the sauce along with the cream. Adjust the amount of cream based on your preference for richness.
Butter Quality
Use good quality butter for better flavour and richness. Brown the butter slightly for a nutty flavour.
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