Butter Paneer Masala

Every Indian loves paneer, whether it's marinated, grilled, minced or used to make a creamy rich gravy like this Paneer Masala! Paneer, also known as Indian Cottage cheese, never fails to dazzle.Butter Paneer Masala, a bright orange-colored smooth,creamy and light buttery flavored North Indian fare, is one of the most popular main course food items in Indian restaurants.Cooked in a mildly spicy and aromatic tomato, butter and creamy onion sauce, topped with fresh ginger and coriander, its a delicacy you won't be able to resist! If you are looking for a rich and festive paneer recipe to entertain friends, look no further - this Butter Paneer Masala will surely leave a lasting impression!

Ingredients:
3 big tomatoes - pureed
250 gms paneer - cubed
2 big onions(blanch for 10 mts and puree)
1 bay leaf
2 cloves
1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp red chilli powder
3 tbsps cashewnut paste
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp dhania powder (dry coriander powder)
1/2 tsp kasuri methi (dry fenugreek leaves)
1 tsp tandoori masala (optional for color)
2 tsp garam masala powder
salt and lemon juice - to taste
3 tbsp butter
3 tbsp fresh cream
fresh coriander - chopped for garnish

Procedure:
Take 1 tbsp of ghee, heat in a pan for 2 mins, the saute the paneer cubes in it till golden brown; Now take 1 cup hot water, add a pinch of salt and turmeric powder to it and immerse the paneer cubes in it for 10-12 mins. Then remove the pieces, drain them on a tissue paper and keep aside.

Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a pan, add the bay leaf and the cloves, then add the onion paste and saute till light-brown. Add ginger-garlic paste. Saute for 3 minutes. Add chilli powder, followed by the cashew paste and fry for 5 mins.

Add tomato puree, crushed kasuri methi,coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala and salt. Stir and let it simmer for some time.

Add the paneer cubes and simmer for 4-5 minutes. Add a small cup of water and let it cook on medium heat till you get the desired curry consistency. Remove from fire, stir in remaining butter and fresh cream.

Garnish with coriander leaves. Serve the Butter Paneer Masala with any bread of your choice, pulao or simply jeera rice.