Butter naan paired with paneer curry is a classic combination that epitomizes Indian cuisine. The soft, fluffy naan,Butter Naan with Paneer Curry: A Professional Recipe Guide, brushed with butter, perfectly complements the rich, spiced, and creamy paneer curry. This dish is ideal for festive dinners, family gatherings, or when you want to bring restaurant-quality Indian flavors to your home kitchen.
This guide will teach you how to make perfectly soft butter naan and a flavorful paneer curry, ensuring a balanced taste, texture, and aroma.
Ingredients
For Butter Naan
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All-purpose flour – 2 cups
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Active dry yeast – 1 teaspoon
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Sugar – 1 teaspoon
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Salt – ½ teaspoon
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Yogurt – ¼ cup (plain)
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Milk – ½ cup (warm)
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Water – ¼ cup (adjust as needed)
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Ghee or butter – 2 tablespoons (for brushing)
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Optional: Nigella seeds or sesame seeds for garnish
For Paneer Curry
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Paneer – 250 g (cubed)
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Onion – 2 medium (finely chopped)
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Tomato – 2 medium (pureed)
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Garlic – 3 cloves (minced)
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Ginger – 1 tablespoon (grated)
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Green chilies – 2 (slit)
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Fresh cream – 3 tablespoons
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Cooking oil – 2 tablespoons
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Fresh coriander – 2 tablespoons (chopped)
Spice Mix for Curry
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Turmeric powder – ½ teaspoon
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Red chili powder – 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
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Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
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Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
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Cumin seeds – ½ teaspoon
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Salt – to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Butter Naan
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Activate Yeast: Mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 10 minutes until frothy.
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Make Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add yogurt and the yeast mixture. Knead into a smooth, soft dough (add water gradually if needed).
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Rest Dough: Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
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Shape Naan: Divide dough into 6–8 portions. Roll each portion into an oval or round shape, about ½ cm thick.
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Cook Naan:
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Tawa Method: Heat a skillet or tawa. Cook naan on medium heat for 1–2 minutes until bubbles form, flip, and cook the other side. Brush generously with butter.
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Oven Method: Preheat oven to 250°C. Place naan on a baking sheet, bake 3–5 minutes, then broil for 1–2 minutes until golden. Brush with butter.
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Step 2: Preparing Paneer Curry
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Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
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Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
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Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chilies; cook for 1 minute.
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Add pureed tomatoes and cook until oil separates from the mixture.
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Mix in turmeric, red chili, coriander powder, and salt. Cook 2–3 minutes.
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Add cubed paneer and stir gently. Cook for 5 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
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Add fresh cream and garam masala. Mix well and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
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Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Pro Tips for Perfect Butter Naan & Paneer Curry
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Use High-Protein Flour – Gives naan a soft and chewy texture.
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Yogurt & Milk – Helps in making naan fluffy and slightly tangy.
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Do Not Overcook Paneer – Paneer can become rubbery if overcooked; add towards the end.
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Butter at the End – Brushing butter just after cooking naan ensures softness and flavor.
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Customizing Curry – Add capsicum, peas, or mushrooms for a vegetable-rich version.
Serving Suggestions
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Main Dish: Serve hot butter naan with paneer curry in a bowl.
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Accompaniments: Raita, pickle, or salad enhances the meal.
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Presentation: Serve naan on a wooden platter with melted butter on top, and curry garnished with coriander for a restaurant-style look.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 400–500 kcal
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Protein: 18 g
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Fat: 22 g
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Carbohydrates: 45 g
Conclusion
Butter naan with paneer curry is a delightful combination of soft, buttery bread and creamy, flavorful curry. With this guide, you can easily recreate restaurant-quality Indian cuisine at home. The key lies in perfecting the naan dough, balancing spices, and adding fresh ingredients.
This dish is versatile, satisfying, and perfect for both family dinners and special occasions. Enjoy it fresh off the pan, and experience the authentic taste of India right in your kitchen.