Creamy Paneer Butter Masala
Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 25 minutes Servings: 4 Fresco Product: Fresco Paneer
There's nothing quite like a rich, velvety Paneer Butter Masala to bring the comfort of home-style Indian curry to your dinner table. This easy paneer recipe pairs golden, pan-fried Fresco Paneer with a luscious tomato and cream sauce, gently spiced and simmered until every cube of cheese is coated in flavour. Whether you're new to cooking Indian curry at home or simply craving a creamy vegetarian curry that never fails to impress, this homemade Paneer Butter Masala is quick enough for a weeknight and special enough for guests.
Ingredients
For the paneer
- 1 block Fresco Paneer, diced into 2cm cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the curry
- 1 tbsp olive oil (reserved from frying, plus extra if needed)
- 1 medium brown onion, finely diced
- 2 tbsp garam masala paste
- 400g tomato puree
- 1 cup thickened cream
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves, to garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by heating 2 tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced Fresco Paneer to the pan in a single layer, taking care not to overcrowd it. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, turning gently, until each cube is golden brown on the outside. Remove the paneer from the pan and set aside on a plate lined with paper towel.
- In the same pan, using the remaining oil, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the garam masala paste and cook for a further 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant and toast slightly in the pan.
- Return the golden Fresco Paneer to the pan, stirring gently to coat the cubes in the onion and spice mixture.
- Pour in the tomato puree and stir well to combine with the paneer and onion mixture.
- Reduce the heat to low-medium and add the thickened cream, stirring continuously until the sauce turns a rich, warm orange and everything is well combined.
- Allow the curry to gently simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly and the flavours have melded together.
- Season with salt to taste, then remove from the heat.
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander, if using, and serve immediately.
Chef's Tips
- For the best golden crust, make sure your pan and oil are properly heated before adding the Fresco Paneer, and resist the urge to move the cubes around too soon.
- Because Fresco Paneer holds its shape beautifully during cooking, it won't break down in the sauce, giving you that classic, satisfying bite in every mouthful.
- If your curry looks a little too thick after simmering, loosen it with a splash of water or extra cream until you reach your preferred consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Paneer Butter Masala is best enjoyed piping hot, spooned generously over steamed basmati rice or scooped up with warm, fluffy naan bread. For a complete spread, pair it with a simple cucumber raita and a side of pickled onions to balance the richness of the sauce.
Storage Instructions
Leftover Paneer Butter Masala will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce as needed. This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the cream-based sauce can separate on thawing.
Optional Variations
- Extra veggies: Stir through baby spinach, peas, or capsicum in the final few minutes of simmering for added colour and nutrition.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chilli powder or a finely chopped green chilli along with the garam masala paste for a spicier version.
- Dairy-light option: Swap the thickened cream for coconut cream for a slightly different, equally delicious take on this classic curry.
There's a reason Paneer Butter Masala remains one of the most loved dishes in Indian curry cuisine, and using Fresco Paneer makes this homemade version easier than ever to recreate in your own kitchen. Creamy, comforting, and full of flavour, this is one paneer recipe that's sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
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