North Indian Gravy Dishes: Butter Chicken, Paneer Butter Masala, Dal Makhani, Palak Paneer, Malai Kofta

The culinary tapestry of Northern India unfolds as a lively collage of aromatic spices, rich textures, and lavish gravies that have captivated the palates of food enthusiasts worldwide. Acclaimed for its generous use of ingredients and refined cooking techniques, the gastronomic wonders originating from this region offer a journey of sensations that goes beyond the ordinary. Amidst the diverse culinary treasures, the gravies of North India Food stand as a testament to the art of blending spices, creating dishes that not only tantalize the tastebuds but also reflect the varied cultural influences imprinted on the region.

In this writeup, we embark on a culinary adventure, delving into the heart of North Indian gravy compositions that have become synonymous with comfort and festivity. From the iconic Butter Chicken, featuring its silky tomato-infused blend, to the delightful Paneer Butter Masala, showcasing the versatility of paneer (Indian curd cheese), we uncover the mysterious facets hidden within these beloved recipes. Join us on a gastronomic journey as we unveil the ingredients, techniques, and subtleties that make North Indian gravy dishes a captivating and indispensable part of the nation’s culinary heritage. Whether you bear the mark of a seasoned chef or are a novice in the culinary realm, these recipes are poised to ignite the passion for recreating the magic of North Indian gastronomy within the confines of your home.

Northern Indian cuisine is renowned for its lavish and flavorful gravies. Presented here are 5 Simply Delicious North Indian Gravy Recipes preparations along with their procedural details:

 

Butter Chicken (Murgh Makhani) Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 500g diced boneless chicken
  • 1 cup yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic mixture
  • 1 teaspoon crimson chili powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons clarified butter
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 cup creamy emulsion
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 teaspoon fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)

 

Instructions:

Marinate the chicken in yogurt, ginger-garlic mixture, crimson chili powder, and salt for a minimum of 2 hours.

Heat clarified butter in a pan, add the marinated chicken, and sauté until it achieves a golden hue.

Infuse tomato puree and sauté until the oil separates.

Add creamy emulsion, garam masala, and fenugreek leaves. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Adjust the seasoning and serve hot with naan or rice.

 

Paneer Butter Masala Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 250g cuboidal paneer
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 cup finely diced onionses
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic mixture
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 teaspoon crimson chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup creamy emulsion
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  • Heat oil in a pan, sauté onions until golden brown.
  • Add ginger-garlic mixture, tomato puree, crimson chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook until the oil separates.
  • Incorporate paneer cubes and cook for 5 minutes.
  • Blend in creamy emulsion, simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve with roti or rice.

 

Dal Makhani Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup soaked black lentils (urad dal)
  • 1/4 cup soaked kidney beans (rajma)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup onion-tomato masala
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup cream
  • Fresh coriander for garnish

Instructions:

  • Boil black lentils and kidney beans until tender.
  • Heat butter in a pan, add onion-tomato masala and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté until aromatic.
  • Introduce red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook until the spices release their aroma.
  • Add the boiled lentils and kidney beans. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
  • Stir in cream, garnish with fresh coriander, and serve hot.

 

Palak Paneer Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 200g diced paneer
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 cup spinach puree
  • 1 cup tomato puree
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup cream

Instructions:

  • Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  • Add ginger-garlic paste, tomato puree, and spinach puree. Cook until the mixture thickens.
  • Incorporate coriander powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  • Add paneer cubes and cream. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Serve hot with naan or rice.

 

Malai Kofta Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 200g grated paneer
  • 1 cup boiled and mashed potatoes
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped mixed vegetables
  • 2 tablespoons gram flour (besan)
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  • Combine grated paneer, mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, besan, ginger-garlic paste, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt to form kofta balls.
  • Fry the kofta balls until golden brown.
  • Prepare a creamy tomato-based gravy separately.
  • Place the fried kofta balls in the gravy and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  • Garnish with cream and serve hot.

 

These recipes capture the essence of North Indian gravies with their rich and aromatic profiles. Adjust the spice level according to your taste preferences. Happy cooking!