Paneer Butter Masala from Swig features soft, creamy paneer cubes simmered in a rich, spiced tomato and butter gravy, garnished with fresh cream and coriander, delivering a smooth and flavorful Indian classic.
Equipments
- Heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai
- Blender or mixer grinder
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Bowl (for soaking paneer, optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
- Small pan (for tempering or roasting spices, optional)
Ingredients
- 250g paneer cubes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 2 cups tomatoes, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 8-10 cashew nuts
- 1-2 green chilies
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves
- 1-2 green cardamom pods
- 1 small bay leaf
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- Water (as needed)
Fresh paneer cubes are essential for achieving the soft, creamy texture characteristic of this dish; if using store-bought paneer, soak it in warm water briefly to enhance softness. Kashmiri red chili powder imparts a vibrant color without overwhelming heat, so adjust green chili quantity to match your spice tolerance. Cashew nuts, when blended into the gravy, add natural creaminess and richness, reducing the need for excessive butter or cream. Use whole spices like cardamom pods, bay leaf, and cinnamon stick for authentic aroma; temper them carefully to avoid bitterness. Your homemade Paneer Butter Masala can closely replicate the Swig version by balancing these ingredients and blending the masala to a smooth, rich consistency.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a heavy-bottomed pan.
- Add bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cardamom pods; sauté for a few seconds.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; sauté until raw smell disappears.
- Add chopped tomatoes, cashew nuts, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and Kashmiri red chili powder.
- Cook until tomatoes soften and oil starts separating.
- Remove whole spices (bay leaf, cinnamon, cardamom) and let the mixture cool.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender; blend to a smooth paste (add little water if needed).
- In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon butter and pour the blended paste back in.
- Cook the paste for 2–3 minutes on medium flame.
- Add paneer cubes and salt; stir gently.
- Add water as needed for desired consistency.
- Add sugar and garam masala; mix well.
- Simmer for 4–5 minutes until paneer is soft and gravy thickens.
- Add fresh cream and mix gently.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and a swirl of more cream.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.
Substitution
Paneer Butter Masala from Swig is a rich, creamy dish with soft paneer cubes in a buttery tomato-based sauce. If you cannot find fresh paneer, firm tofu can be a good substitute, though it will alter the texture slightly. Use canned tomatoes instead of fresh if convenience is a priority, blending them to achieve a smooth gravy consistency. Adjust the level of Kashmiri red chili powder to control spiciness according to your taste preference. Fresh cream can be replaced with coconut cream for a dairy-free option, maintaining the dish's richness.
Tips
Ensure paneer cubes are gently stirred to prevent breaking and maintain their soft texture. When blending the tomato-cashew mixture, allow it to cool to avoid steam buildup that can cause splattering. Use Kashmiri red chili powder for its vibrant color and mild heat, balancing the spices for a smoother flavor profile. Your paneer butter masala will reach the perfect consistency by adjusting water gradually and simmering until the gravy thickens.
Nutritions
Paneer Butter Masala is a nutrient-rich dish that provides a good balance of protein and healthy fats primarily from paneer and butter. Paneer supplies high-quality calcium and protein, essential for muscle repair and bone health, while cashew nuts contribute heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. The inclusion of tomatoes and spices adds vitamins such as vitamin C, along with anti-inflammatory compounds that support digestion and immunity. You can enjoy this flavorful meal as a wholesome source of energy and nutrition, especially when paired with whole wheat roti or brown rice for added fiber.
Storage
Store your Paneer Butter Masala in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain its creamy texture and rich flavor, consuming within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. Reheat gently on low flame or in a microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the butter and cream from separating. Avoid freezing as it can alter the gravy's smooth consistency and paneer's softness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can try substituting cashew nuts with soaked almonds for a different nutty flavor and creaminess in the gravy. Roasting the whole spices (cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaf) before adding them can enhance their aroma and deepen the dish's complexity. For a healthier twist, replace fresh cream with coconut cream or Greek yogurt, which also adds a unique tanginess to the paneer butter masala. To enhance tenderness, briefly pan-fry the paneer cubes before adding them to the gravy, preventing them from becoming mushy.
Allergies
Your Paneer Butter Masala contains dairy ingredients such as paneer, butter, and fresh cream, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Cashew nuts are also included, posing a risk for those with tree nut allergies. It's important to check each ingredient carefully if you have food allergies or sensitivities.
Why this recipe?
Paneer Butter Masala from Swig restaurant is renowned for its rich, creamy tomato-based gravy combined with perfectly spiced paneer cubes, creating an irresistible flavor profile. The dish balances buttery smoothness with aromatic spices such as garam masala, cumin, and fenugreek leaves, delivering an authentic North Indian taste that delights your palate. Swig's paneer is fresh and tender, enhancing the overall texture and making every bite satisfying and indulgent. Trying to make a copycat version at home allows you to customize the spice levels and savor the restaurant-quality dish anytime.