Paneer Butter Masala Recipe, also known as Paneer Makhani, is a popular Indian dish that has become a favourite in many parts of the world. While the precise origins of Paneer Butter Masala Recipe are a bit unclear, it is generally agreed that it is a North Indian dish that evolved from the rich and flavourful Punjabi cuisine.
The roots of Paneer Butter Masala can be traced back to the mid-20th century in the state of Punjab, India. It is believed to have been created in the kitchen of the famous Moti Mahal restaurant in Delhi. Kundan Lal Gujral, the founder of Moti Mahal, is often credited with the invention of this iconic dish.
The story goes that Kundan Lal Gujral, who had migrated from Peshawar to Delhi after the partition of India in 1947, wanted to find a way to utilise the tandoor (clay oven) in his restaurant to create new and delicious dishes. He is said to have experimented with cooking marinated chicken in a tomato and butter sauce, which eventually led to the creation of the classic Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani).
Paneer Butter Masala is considered a vegetarian counterpart to Butter Chicken, where the chicken is replaced with paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese. The dish typically features paneer cubes cooked in a rich and creamy tomato-based curry, flavoured with aromatic spices and finished with butter and cream. It has a mild and slightly sweet flavour, making it a popular choice among people with varying spice preferences.
Over the years, Paneer Butter Masala has become a staple in Indian restaurants and households alike. Its popularity has transcended borders, making it a sought-after vegetarian dish in Indian cuisine globally. Many variations of the recipe exist, with different chefs and home cooks adding their unique twists to suit individual tastes. Today, Paneer Butter Masala remains a beloved and cherished dish, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of North India.
Paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese, is a popular dairy product that offers various health benefits when consumed in moderation. Here are some of the potential health benefits of paneer:
- Rich Source of Protein:
- Paneer is an excellent source of high-quality protein, making it beneficial for muscle development, repair, and overall growth.
- Calcium Content:
- Being a dairy product, paneer is rich in calcium, which is essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Adequate calcium intake is crucial for preventing conditions like osteoporosis.
- Phosphorus Content:
- Paneer contains phosphorus, another essential mineral that plays a key role in bone health, as well as in the proper functioning of the kidneys, nerves, and muscles.
- Vitamin D:
- Paneer is a source of vitamin D, which is important for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D is crucial for maintaining bone health and supporting the immune system.
- Rich in B Vitamins:
- Paneer contains various B vitamins, including B2 (riboflavin), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin). These vitamins are important for energy metabolism, red blood cell formation, and nerve function.
- Weight Management:
- The high protein content in paneer can contribute to a feeling of satiety, helping in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
- Blood Sugar Regulation:
- Some studies suggest that the protein and fat content in paneer may help in slowing down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, which could be beneficial for those with diabetes.
- Boosts Metabolism:
- Protein-rich foods like paneer can boost metabolism by increasing the thermic effect of food (TEF), which is the energy expended during digestion, absorption, and metabolism of nutrients.
- Good Source of Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA):
- Paneer contains small amounts of CLA, a type of fatty acid that has been associated with various health benefits, including anti-cancer properties and potential weight management effects.
Despite these benefits, it’s important to consume paneer in moderation, especially for individuals who are lactose intolerant or have dietary restrictions. Additionally, it’s advisable to choose low-fat or part-skim paneer options if you’re concerned about the fat content. Always consult with a healthcare professional or a nutritionist for personalised dietary advice based on your individual health needs.
Paneer Butter Masala is a popular and delicious North Indian dish. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
- 250g paneer (cottage cheese), cubed
- 2 large tomatoes, chopped
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cashew nuts
- 1/4 cup fresh cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chilli powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity of tomatoes)
- Fresh coriander leaves and fresh cream for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare Cashew Paste:
- Soak the cashew nuts in warm water for about 15-20 minutes.
- Grind the soaked cashews into a smooth paste.
- Prepare Tomato Puree:
- Blanch the tomatoes in hot water for a few minutes.
- Peel off the skin and blend the tomatoes into a smooth puree.
- Cooking:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add tomato puree, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until the mixture releases oil and becomes a thick masala paste.
- Add Cashew Paste:
- Add the cashew paste to the masala and cook for a few more minutes.
- Add Paneer:
- Add the cubed paneer and mix well, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavours.
- Add Fresh Cream:
- Pour in the fresh cream and mix gently. Adjust the consistency with water if needed.
- Add Garam Masala and Sugar:
- Add garam masala and sugar (if using) to balance the flavours. Mix well.
- Finish with Butter:
- Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and let it melt into the curry.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and fresh cream.
Your Paneer Butter Masala is ready to be served! Enjoy it with naan, roti, or steamed rice.