Paneer Butter Masala - Indian Style

Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Base

Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a pan. Add 4-5 cloves of garlic and 1 inch of ginger. Saute for a few seconds until aromatic.

Step 2: Cook Onions, Tomatoes, and Cashews

Add 1/2 large chopped onion (or 1 cup chopped) and saute until the onion softens. Then, add 4 cubed tomatoes and 15-20 cashew nuts. Combine well. Cover the pan and cook for 10 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

Step 3: Blend the Gravy Base

Remove the cooked mixture from heat and allow it to cool down completely. Transfer the cooled mixture to a blender. Add 1/2 cup water and blend into a smooth paste. Keep the onion tomato paste aside.

Step 4: Temper Spices

In the same pan, heat 2 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter. Add 2 bay leaves and 1/2 tsp cumin seeds. Saute for a few seconds until aromatic. Reduce the heat to low. Add 1 tsp red chili powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, 1/2 tsp cumin powder, and 1 tsp kasuri methi. Saute at low heat until the spices turn aromatic, about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Cook the Gravy

Pour the prepared onion tomato paste into the pan. Add a little water from the blender to rinse out any remaining paste. Add 1 tsp salt and combine everything well. Cover the pan and cook for 5 minutes on medium heat. Mix well. If the gravy is too thick, add a little bit of water or milk and bring it to a boil.

Step 6: Add Paneer and Final Seasonings

Add 1 tsp gram masala and combine well. Add 350 gm cubed paneer and mix gently to coat the paneer with the gravy. Add 1/2 tsp sugar (optional). Cover the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on medium heat.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Add 1 tbsp butter, 1-2 thin slit green chilies, and 2 tbsp chopped coriander leaves. Crush 1/2 tsp kasuri methi between your palms and sprinkle it over the curry. Drizzle 2 tbsp fresh cream over the paneer butter masala. Adjust the salt as per taste. Switch off the stove and combine everything gently. Transfer the Paneer Butter Masala to a serving bowl and serve hot with Roti, Naan, or Jeera rice.

• If the gravy is too thick after cooking, add a little bit of water or milk to reach your desired consistency and bring it to a boil.

• Adjust salt and sugar according to your taste preference.

• Serve with Roti, Naan, or Jeera rice for a complete meal.