Makhani Paneer Recipe - A Luxurious and Creamy Delight

Introduction:

Makhani Paneer, also known as Paneer Makhani or Butter Paneer, is a luxurious and indulgent dish that showcases the creamy texture of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a rich and flavorful tomato-based sauce. This vegetarian delicacy is a favorite in Indian cuisine, celebrated for its velvety consistency and the perfect balance of spices. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to create a Makhani Paneer that will elevate your dining experience to a whole new level.

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Ingredients:

For the Paneer Marinade:

250g paneer, cut into cubes

1 cup yogurt

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

Salt to taste

For the Makhani Sauce:

2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or butter

1 large onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

1 teaspoon red chili powder

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 cup tomato puree

1/2 cup cashew nuts, soaked and ground into a paste

1 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons butter

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Marinating the Paneer:

In a bowl, mix yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt to create the marinade.

Add paneer cubes, ensuring they are well-coated. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Grilling the Paneer:

Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.

Thread marinated paneer onto skewers and grill for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown. Set aside.

Preparing the Makhani Sauce:

In a large pan, heat ghee or butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

Stir in ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, and turmeric powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Add tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.

Stir in cashew nut paste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Pour in heavy cream, add butter, and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Season with salt to taste.

Combining Paneer with the Makhani Sauce:

Add the grilled paneer to the Makhani sauce, coating each piece well.

Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Finishing Touches:

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve Makhani Paneer hot with naan bread, roti, or steamed basmati rice.

A side of cucumber raita or pickled onions can complement the dish well.

Conclusion:

Treat your palate to the luxurious and creamy goodness of Makhani Paneer, a dish that exemplifies the richness and depth of Indian cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a centerpiece for a special meal or a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Delight in the sumptuous flavors and velvety texture of this classic dish, making it a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.