Paneer Butter Masala - By Vahchef @ Vahrehvah.com

Paneer Butter Masala - By Vahchef @ Vahrehvah.com is a easy Indian recipe that serves 3. 237 calories per serving. Recipe by Vahchef - VahRehVah on YouTube.

Prep: 7 min | Cook: 12 min | Total: 24 min

Cost: $15.01 total, $5.00 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 tsp Coriander Powder (ground coriander)
  • 0.5 tsp Garam Masala Powder (store‑bought garam masala)
  • 0.25 tsp Red Chilli Powder (adjust to heat preference)
  • 0.25 tsp Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves, crushed)
  • 1 tsp Tomato Ketchup (regular)
  • 1 tsp Tomato Paste (smooth)
  • 2.5 tsp Tomato Puree (optional for extra tomato flavor)
  • 4 tbsp Milk (whole milk; add more if needed to thin)
  • 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter (for pan)
  • 1 tsp Ginger-Garlic Paste (store‑bought)
  • 1 tbsp Fried Onions (dry) (crushed)
  • 0.5 tsp Salt (to taste)
  • 200 g Paneer (fresh, cut into 1‑inch cubes)
  • pinch Food Coloring (optional for richer color)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Spice‑Milk Mixture

    In a small bowl combine coriander powder, garam masala, chilli powder, kasuri methi, ketchup, tomato paste, optional tomato puree, milk, and a pinch of salt. Mix until smooth.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Melt Butter

    Place the nonstick skillet on low flame and add the butter. Let it melt completely.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: low

  3. Sauté Aromatics

    Add ginger‑garlic paste to the melted butter and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the crushed fried onions and stir another 30 seconds.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: low

  4. Add Spice‑Milk Mixture

    Pour the prepared mixture into the skillet, stirring continuously to combine with the aromatics.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: low

  5. Simmer

    Cover the skillet and let the gravy simmer on low flame for 3‑4 minutes until the raw spices are cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: low

  6. Adjust Consistency

    If the gravy is too thick, add a little more milk (1‑2 tbsp) gradually, stirring immediately to avoid curdling.

    Time: PT1M

  7. Add Paneer

    Gently fold the paneer cubes into the gravy, bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2 minutes until the paneer is heated through.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium

  8. Finish and Serve

    Turn off the heat, give a final stir, and serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
237
Protein
9 g
Carbohydrates
5 g
Fat
13 g
Fiber
1 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free, High-Protein

Allergens: Milk, Dairy

Last updated: April 15, 2026

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Paneer Butter Masala - By Vahchef @ Vahrehvah.com

Recipe by Vahchef - VahRehVah

A lightning‑fast version of the classic Indian Paneer Butter Masala that can be ready in about 3 minutes of cooking. Using fresh spices, a touch of butter, and ready‑made fried onions, this recipe delivers authentic flavor with minimal prep, perfect for busy weeknights.

EasyIndianServes 3

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
7m
Prep
7m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
24m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$15.01
Total cost
$5.00
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Sauté Aromatics
  • Simmer
  • Add Paneer

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot skillet carefully to avoid burns.
  • Do not overheat butter; it can smoke and burn.
  • Add milk slowly to prevent curdling due to acidity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Paneer Butter Masala in North Indian cuisine?

A

Paneer Butter Masala, also known as Paneer Makhani, originated in the Punjab region as a richer, vegetarian counterpart to Butter Chicken. It reflects the Punjabi love for buttery, tomato‑based gravies and is a staple at celebrations and family meals.

cultural
Q

What traditional regional variations of Paneer Butter Masala exist within Indian cuisine?

A

In Delhi and surrounding areas the dish is often richer with added cream, while in Gujarat a sweeter version with a hint of sugar is common. Some South Indian cooks add a touch of coconut milk for a subtle tropical flavor.

cultural
Q

How is Paneer Butter Masala traditionally served in North Indian households?

A

It is typically served hot with soft butter naan, tandoori roti, or steamed basmati rice, and garnished with a drizzle of butter and fresh cilantro. It is a favorite for festive meals and weekend family lunches.

cultural
Q

During which occasions is Paneer Butter Masala commonly prepared in Indian culture?

A

Paneer Butter Masala is popular at festivals such as Diwali and Holi, during wedding feasts, and at birthday celebrations because its rich flavor appeals to both adults and children.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional Paneer Butter Masala versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include fresh paneer, butter, kasuri methi, garam masala, and tomato puree. Substitutes like firm tofu can replace paneer for a vegan version, and ghee can replace butter for a richer taste.

cultural
Q

What other North Indian dishes pair well with Paneer Butter Masala?

A

Paneer Butter Masala pairs beautifully with butter naan, garlic roti, jeera rice, and a side of cucumber raita. It also complements a simple dal tadka for a complete vegetarian thali.

cultural
Q

What makes Paneer Butter Masala special or unique in Indian vegetarian cuisine?

A

Its silky, buttery tomato‑based gravy enriched with kasuri methi and a balanced spice blend gives it a luxurious mouthfeel that sets it apart from other paneer curries, which are often more tomato‑free or yogurt‑based.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Paneer Butter Masala at home?

A

Common mistakes include overcooking the paneer, which makes it rubbery, and adding milk too quickly, which can cause curdling. Also, cooking the spices on high heat can burn the butter and create a bitter taste.

technical
Q

Why does this Paneer Butter Masala recipe use fried onions instead of fresh onions?

A

Fried onions provide instant onion flavor without the need for lengthy sautéing, which keeps the cooking time under three minutes while still delivering the sweet depth that fresh onions would add after a longer cook.

technical
Q

Can I make Paneer Butter Masala ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the gravy ahead and refrigerate it for up to two days. Reheat gently on low heat, add a splash of milk if it thickens, and then add fresh paneer just before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel VahChef - VahRehVah specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel VahChef - VahRehVah specializes in fast, practical Indian cooking tutorials, often using minimal equipment and focusing on microwave or quick‑stove techniques for busy home cooks.

channel

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