Growing up, my family always gathered in the kitchen on weekends to make Paneer Butter Masala, a rich and creamy Indian dish full of flavor. The smell of simmering spices and buttery tomato gravy would fill the house and everyone would sneak tastes while the dish cooked. I chose this recipe because it’s not only deeply rooted in Indian culture but also easy to make with simple ingredients, making it perfect for students or home cooks looking for a satisfying meal. This dish costs roughly $12 for four servings and uses 10 ingredients, making it both budget-friendly and indulgent. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, costing roughly $12 for four servings and using just 10 ingredients, making it both affordable and indulgent.

Ingredients:

For the gravy:

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste

2 medium tomatoes, pureed

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1 teaspoon garam masala

½ teaspoon turmeric

½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

½ cup heavy cream

For the paneer:

1 pound paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes

Optional garnish: fresh cilantro leaves

Directions:

For this recipe, start by heating vegetable oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Mix in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for one minute until fragrant. Pour in the tomato puree, red chili powder, turmeric and salt, stirring to combine. Let the gravy simmer for 8-10 minutes until it thickens and the oil starts to separate.

Next, add the paneer cubes and gently coat them in the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream and garam masala, allowing the dish to simmer on low heat for 5 minutes so the flavors meld together. If the gravy is too thick, add 2-3 tablespoons of water to reach the desired consistency. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Wrap-up:

Paneer Butter Masala goes wonderfully with naan, roti or steamed rice, making it a versatile dish for lunch or dinner. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated gently on the stove. I love sharing this recipe because it brings a taste of Indian tradition into every kitchen while being simple enough for anyone to try. Give it a shot and enjoy a creamy, flavorful meal that will leave your home smelling amazing.

Edited by Anushma Dahal and Bidhya Sapkota