Butter Masala with Indian Cottage Cheese and Peas: A Delicious Vegetarian Delight

Indian cuisine is known for its rich flavors and aromatic spices. One such dish that exemplifies the essence of Indian cooking is Butter Masala with Indian Cottage Cheese and Peas. This vegetarian delight is a creamy and indulgent dish that combines the goodness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and peas in a luscious tomato-based gravy. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, step-by-step process, and interesting facts about this delectable recipe.

Ingredients:

• 200 grams of paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
• 1 cup of green peas
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 3 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of garam masala
• 1 teaspoon of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1/2 cup of fresh cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Step-by-Step Process:

Step 1: Preparing the Paneer and Peas

1. Cut the paneer into small cubes and soak them in warm water for 10 minutes. This will make the paneer soft and tender.

2. Boil the green peas in salted water until they are cooked but still retain their crunchiness. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Making the Tomato Gravy

1. Heat a tablespoon of butter in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.

2. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

3. Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears.

4. Now, add the tomato puree and cook on medium heat until the oil separates from the gravy.

5. Add the red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Bringing it all Together

1. Add the soaked paneer cubes and boiled green peas to the tomato gravy. Mix gently to coat them with the flavors.

2. Crush the kasuri methi between your palms and sprinkle it over the dish. This will add a unique aroma to the butter masala.

3. Pour in the fresh cream and stir well to combine. Cook for a few more minutes until the paneer and peas are heated through.

4. Finally, add a tablespoon of butter and give it a good mix. This will enhance the richness and creaminess of the dish.

Do You Know?

Butter Masala with Indian Cottage Cheese and Peas, also known as Paneer Matar Makhani, is a popular dish in North Indian cuisine. It is often served with naan, roti, or rice. Here are some interesting facts about this delightful recipe:

• Paneer, the star ingredient of this dish, is a type of fresh cheese that is widely used in Indian cooking. It is made by curdling milk with lemon juice or vinegar.
• Paneer is a good source of protein and calcium, making it a healthy choice for vegetarians.
• The tomato-based gravy in this recipe gets its rich and creamy texture from the addition of butter and fresh cream.
• Kasuri methi, or dried fenugreek leaves, is a key ingredient that adds a distinct flavor to the dish. It is commonly used in Indian cooking for its aromatic properties.
• Butter Masala with Indian Cottage Cheese and Peas is a versatile dish that can be customized according to personal preferences. Some variations include adding cashew paste for extra creaminess or garnishing with grated paneer.

Now that you know the ingredients and step-by-step process, it’s time to indulge in the flavors of Butter Masala with Indian Cottage Cheese and Peas. This dish is a perfect choice for vegetarians and anyone looking to savor the authentic taste of Indian cuisine. So, gather the ingredients, follow the recipe, and treat yourself to a truly delightful meal!

Conclusion

Butter Masala with Indian Cottage Cheese and Peas is a mouthwatering vegetarian dish that showcases the richness and flavors of Indian cuisine. With its creamy tomato gravy, tender paneer cubes, and crunchy green peas, this recipe is a true delight for the taste buds. By following the step-by-step process and using the right ingredients, you can recreate this restaurant-style dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. So, why wait? Give it a try and experience the magic of Butter Masala with Indian Cottage Cheese and Peas!