Best Easy Paneer Makhani Recipe

Paneer makhani is the vegetarian counterpart of butter chicken, with paneer in a velvety tomato-butter sauce. Rich in protein, this vegetarian comfort food is an absolute family favorite.

Cook 40 min Difficulty NORMAL 320 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • paneer (cubed) 12 oz
  • unsalted butter 3 tbsp
  • yellow onion (chopped) 1 cup
  • tomato puree 1 cup
  • cashews 1 oz
  • heavy cream 1 4 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • garlic (minced) 2 cloves
  • ginger (minced) 1 tsp
  • garam masala 1 tsp
  • coriander powder 1 tsp
  • cumin powder 0.5 tsp
  • red chili powder 0.5 tsp
  • kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) 1 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • sugar 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 18 g 23%
Protein 16 g 20%
Fat 19 g 57%
Serving size 250g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat 2 tbsp butter in a heavy skillet over medium heat until melted but not browned. Add chopped onion and sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and lightly golden.

  2. 2

    Stir in minced garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute until aromatic. Add cashews and sauté for 2 minutes to enhance their flavor and creaminess.

  3. 3

    Pour in tomato puree, coriander powder, cumin powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Simmer, stirring occasionally, on medium-low heat for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens and oil begins to separate.

  4. 4

    Carefully blend the mixture until very smooth using an immersion blender or countertop blender. Return to pan, add remaining 1 tbsp butter, kasuri methi, and sugar. Simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes.

  5. 5

    Stir in heavy cream and gently fold in the paneer cubes. Simmer for another 3–5 minutes on low heat, stirring gently, so the paneer stays tender and the sauce is silky. Serve hot.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What’s the key ingredient in this Paneer Makhani recipe?
Paneer is the star ingredient, giving this dish its rich protein content and creamy texture. The combination of paneer with tomato, butter, and aromatic Indian seasoning creates the classic flavor and comfort that defines Paneer Makhani.
Q. How do I ensure the sauce is silky and smooth?
Blend the cooked onion-tomato-cashew mixture thoroughly until completely smooth before adding cream and paneer. This step is crucial for a velvety texture, and using an immersion blender or high-powered countertop blender prevents lumps.
Q. What is the optimal heat and timing for cooking the sauce?
Simmer the sauce on medium-low for 10 minutes after adding tomatoes and spices. This gradual cooking lets the flavors meld and the tomatoes lose rawness without burning. Always lower the heat before adding cream and paneer to avoid curdling and overcooking.
Q. How many calories and protein are in each serving?
Each serving (250g) of this Paneer Makhani provides approximately 320 kcal and 16g of protein. That's a protein contribution of 20% of the calories, making it a satisfying vegetarian protein choice.
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