Paneer Butter Masala Instant pot best recipe

Paneer Butter Masala

This also known as Butter paneer is a rich & creamy curry made with “paneer”, with fewer spices, onion, tomato, cashews, and more butter. As the name itself says butter curry is cooked in butter which enhances its flavor.

Paneer is a soft white cheese used in many dishes for weddings, parties, and occasions. Paneer could be considered as the best alternative to meat for a protein-rich diet food and best for vegetarians.It is rich in minerals like zinc, magnesium, and potassium, it might reduce muscle cramps. There is many paneer recipes available like palak paneer, paneer tikka masala, shahi paneer recipe, paneer makhani…

This blog by gazzrecipes on Paneer Butter Masala.

Paneer Butter Masala Instant Pot: A Delectable Indian Delight
In the world of Indian cuisine, there are few dishes as beloved as Paneer Butter Masala. This creamy and flavorful curry, typically made with cottage cheese (paneer), tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices, has won the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. And now, with the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can prepare this mouthwatering delicacy in a fraction of the time it traditionally takes. In this article, we’ll delve into the art of making Paneer Butter Masala using an Instant Pot, step by step.

1. Introduction
Paneer Butter Masala is a classic North Indian dish that combines the rich creaminess of butter and cream with the tanginess of tomatoes, all complemented by the subtle heat of Indian spices. It’s a dish that suits both special occasions and everyday dining, and with the Instant Pot, it’s easier than ever to prepare.

Over the years, as technology and cooking methods evolved, the traditional preparation of Paneer Butter Masala has been adapted to suit modern kitchen appliances, including the Instant Pot. This adaptation has made it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, allowing them to enjoy the flavors of this classic dish with less effort and time.

2. Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the perfect Paneer Butter Masala, you’ll need the following ingredients:

250g paneer (cottage cheese), cubed
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon cooking oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, pureed
1/2 cup fresh cream
1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

3. Preparing the Paneer
Begin by cutting the paneer into bite-sized cubes. You can also lightly fry them in a pan until they turn golden for added flavor and texture.

4. Sauteing the Aromatics
In the Instant Pot, select the “Saute” function and add butter and oil. Once the oil and butter are hot, add the chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent. Then, add the ginger-garlic paste and continue sautéing for another minute.

5. Adding Tomatoes and Spices
Pour in the tomato puree and stir well. Add the red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix until the spices are well incorporated into the tomato mixture.

6. Pressure Cooking with the Instant Pot
Switch off the “Saute” mode and close the Instant Pot lid. Set the Instant Pot to “Manual” mode and cook for 5 minutes on high pressure. Once done, allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.

7. Finishing Touches with Cream and Butter
Open the Instant Pot and stir in the fresh cream. Add the paneer cubes and let them simmer in the sauce for a couple of minutes. Finally, add a generous dollop of butter and mix until it melts into the gravy, giving your Paneer Butter Masala its signature richness.

8. Serving Your Paneer Butter Masala
Garnish your Paneer Butter Masala with fresh coriander leaves. This delectable dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, naan, or chapati. Serve it hot and savor the creamy, aromatic delight!

9. Tips and Tricks
You can control the level of spiciness by adding more or less red chili powder to suit your taste.
For a vegan version, substitute the cream with coconut milk and the paneer with tofu.
To freeze Paneer Butter Masala, allow it to cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.

10. The Magic of Paneer Butter Masala

Paneer Butter Masala, also known as Paneer Makhani, is a beloved vegetarian dish that has a special place in the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its velvety, tomato-based gravy infused with aromatic spices and rich, creamy butter creates a harmonious symphony of flavors. Here, we’ll explore more about the nuances of this iconic dish and how the Instant Pot elevates the cooking experience.

11. The Instant Pot Advantage

The Instant Pot has revolutionized cooking by offering a convenient and time-saving way to prepare dishes that traditionally required hours of simmering. When it comes to Paneer Butter Masala, the Instant Pot shines in multiple ways:

a. Speed and Efficiency

In the past, making this dish involved slow-cooking the tomatoes to achieve the perfect consistency. The Instant Pot, with its pressure-cooking function, speeds up this process significantly, infusing the gravy with intense flavors in a fraction of the time.

b. Retaining Flavors

The sealed environment of the Instant Pot ensures that the flavors of the spices, tomatoes, and butter meld together seamlessly. This results in a restaurant-quality dish that tastes like it has been simmering for hours.

c. Easy Cleanup

One of the best advantages of using the Instant Pot is the minimal mess it leaves behind. With fewer pots and pans to clean, you can enjoy your Paneer Butter Masala without the hassle of a kitchen cleanup marathon.

12. Creative Variations

While the classic Paneer Butter Masala is a favorite, there are numerous creative variations to explore:

a. Adding Vegetables

Enhance the nutritional value of your dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the gravy. They not only add color and texture but also contribute to a well-rounded meal.

b. Cashew Cream

For an even richer and nuttier flavor, replace regular cream with cashew cream. Soak cashews, blend them into a smooth paste, and stir it into the masala to achieve a luscious, dairy-free version.

c. Smoked Paneer

Infuse a smoky flavor into your Paneer Butter Masala by briefly smoking the paneer cubes with a piece of smoldering charcoal and a drizzle of ghee. This simple step can elevate your dish to a whole new level.

13. Cultural Significance

Paneer Butter Masala holds cultural significance in India, especially in the North, where it is considered a staple in festive and celebratory meals. Its creamy and indulgent taste makes it a popular choice for weddings, parties, and special occasions.

14. A Global Favorite

Beyond India, Paneer Butter Masala has gained international acclaim. Its creamy, mildly spicy profile appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a top choice in Indian restaurants worldwide.

15. The Joy of Sharing

Cooking Paneer Butter Masala in an Instant Pot not only saves time but also allows you to share the joy of this delectable dish with family and friends. Gather around the table and savor the creamy goodness together.

Conclusion
Paneer Butter Masala is a quintessential Indian dish transcending borders and capturing hearts. With the help of the Instant Pot, you can now prepare this delightful curry effortlessly. So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, give this recipe a try and indulge in the creamy, buttery goodness of Paneer Butter Masala.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Paneer Butter Masala the same as Shahi Paneer?
No, they are not the same. While both dishes feature paneer as the main ingredient, Paneer Butter Masala is known for its creamy tomato-based gravy, whereas Shahi Paneer is characterized by its rich, cashew-based gravy.

2. Can I use store-bought paneer?
Yes, you can use store-bought paneer if you’re short on time. However, homemade paneer often has a fresher and creamier texture.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat to your Paneer Butter Masala, increase the amount of red chili powder or add a chopped green chili while sautéing the onions.

4. Is it suitable for a vegan diet?
You can adapt this recipe for a vegan diet by using coconut milk instead of cream and tofu instead of paneer.

5. Can I freeze Paneer Butter Masala?
Yes, you can freeze Paneer Butter Masala. Let it cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container and store it in the freezer for a maximum of 2 months.