Get ready to unlock the secret to the most decadent and mouth-watering Paneer Butter Masala you've ever tasted! This restaurant-style recipe brings the magic of Indian cuisine right into your kitchen, with a foolproof Instant Pot method that guarantees creamy, rich, and perfectly spiced paneer in just 30 minutes. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a complete beginner, this dish will transform your dinner into a gourmet experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 250 grams paneer, cubed
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 cup cream
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by cutting paneer into uniform 1-inch cubes and finely chopping the onion.
- Set Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add butter. Allow butter to melt completely and become slightly golden.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and light golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate ginger-garlic paste and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring continuously to prevent burning.
- Pour in tomato puree and mix well. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes until the raw tomato smell disappears.
- Add garam masala, salt, and mix thoroughly to combine all spices with the base.
- Pour cream into the pot and stir gently to create a smooth, rich sauce.
- Add paneer cubes and fold them carefully into the sauce, ensuring even coating.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, set to manual pressure cooking for 4 minutes.
- Once cooking completes, do a quick release of pressure.
- Open lid, give a gentle stir, and garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, rice, or any preferred Indian bread.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality paneer for the best texture and flavor. If possible, make your own or buy from a reliable source.
- Ensure your butter is slightly golden before adding onions to enhance the nutty, rich flavor base.
- Sauté the onions patiently until they're translucent and light golden - this builds depth in your sauce.
- When adding cream, stir gently to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth, silky consistency.
- Don't overcook the paneer during pressure cooking - 4 minutes is perfect to keep it soft and tender.
- For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) while cooking.
- Garnish with fresh coriander just before serving to add a burst of freshness and color.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a little warm water or additional cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 100mg
