Keto Butter Paneer

If you’re craving a rich, creamy, and flavorful dish that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle, look no further than this Keto Butter Paneer! This Indian-inspired dish is made with soft paneer, simmered in a luscious, aromatic tomato-based sauce, and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Not only does it have the perfect combination of spices and textures, but it’s also a great way to enjoy a keto-friendly version of a classic favorite. Whether you serve it over cauliflower rice or with a side of veggies, this Keto Butter Paneer is a must-try for any low-carb enthusiast.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Keto Butter Paneer is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Indian cuisine without the carbs. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Rich, creamy sauce: The buttery, flavorful sauce coats the paneer perfectly, making every bite a burst of deliciousness.
• Low-carb and keto-friendly: This recipe keeps the carbs low while maintaining all the flavor of traditional butter chicken or butter paneer dishes.
• Simple and quick to make: With minimal ingredients and steps, this dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special treat.
• Packed with protein: Paneer is an excellent source of protein, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.

My Personal Experience

I was first introduced to butter paneer at an Indian restaurant, and I instantly fell in love with its rich, creamy texture and bold spices. However, I wanted a version that I could enjoy without worrying about the carbs. After experimenting with different recipes, I finally created this Keto Butter Paneer, which exceeded my expectations. The rich, creamy sauce pairs so well with the soft paneer, and it’s become one of my go-to keto meals. Every time I make it, my family loves it, and I know you’ll enjoy it too!

Required Equipment

To make this Keto Butter Paneer, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Non-stick skillet or sauté pan: A good-quality non-stick pan is essential for making this dish. I recommend using one that distributes heat evenly to avoid burning the sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Stirring the sauce gently with a wooden spoon will help keep the consistency smooth and prevent any splashes.
• Knife and chopping board: A sharp knife makes prepping the onion, garlic, and ginger easy, ensuring all ingredients are finely chopped for a smooth sauce.
• Blender or food processor (optional): If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can use a blender to purée the tomatoes and other ingredients before adding to the pan.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients for this Keto Butter Paneer and some possible substitutions:

• Paneer: This is the main ingredient. Paneer is a type of Indian cheese that’s firm and holds its shape well when cooked. If you don’t have paneer, you can use halloumi as a substitute, but the texture will be slightly different.
• Butter: For that rich, creamy texture, butter is essential in this recipe. You can also use ghee if you prefer a more authentic Indian flavor.
• Tomatoes (fresh or canned): Tomatoes form the base of the sauce. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute with canned tomato puree. Make sure it’s unsweetened.
• Heavy cream: For the creamy richness that makes the sauce so indulgent. If you want a dairy-free option, coconut cream can work, but it will change the flavor slightly.
• Spices (garam masala, turmeric, cumin, coriander): These spices are key to bringing depth of flavor to the dish. If you don’t have garam masala, you can use a blend of the individual spices.
• Onion, garlic, and ginger: Freshly minced for the perfect aromatic base. You can substitute the fresh garlic and ginger with garlic and ginger powder, though I recommend fresh for the best flavor.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

How to Make Keto Butter Paneer

1. Prep the ingredients: Start by chopping the onion, garlic, and ginger finely. Set them aside. Cube the paneer into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the paneer: Heat a tablespoon of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the paneer and sauté until golden brown on all sides. Remove the paneer from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter. Sauté the chopped onion until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook until fragrant.
4. Add the spices: Stir in the garam masala, cumin, turmeric, and coriander. Let them cook for a minute to release their aromas.
5. Add the tomatoes: Pour in the tomatoes (puree or fresh) and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
6. Blend the sauce (optional): For a smoother sauce, you can blend the mixture at this stage, then return it to the pan. This step is optional but adds to the creamy texture.
7. Finish the sauce: Add the heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce becomes silky and smooth.
8. Combine the paneer: Gently fold the browned paneer cubes into the sauce. Let the dish simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the paneer to soak up all the flavors.
9. Serve and enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of additional butter if desired. Serve hot with cauliflower rice or your favorite keto sides.

Tips for This Recipe

• If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped green chilies to the sauce.
• To make it even richer, stir in a little more butter right before serving.
• For a more authentic flavor, consider adding kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) to the sauce.
• Keep the heat on low when simmering the sauce to avoid burning the spices.

Optional Additions

• Vegetables: You can add spinach, bell peppers, or cauliflower to the dish for extra texture and flavor.
• Nuts: For an extra richness, add a handful of crushed almonds or cashews into the sauce.

Serving Ideas

• Cauliflower Rice: Serve this Keto Butter Paneer with cauliflower rice for a perfect low-carb meal.
• Keto Naan: Try it with homemade keto naan for a delicious Indian-inspired experience.
• Keto Veggies: Pair it with a side of sautéed zucchini or steamed broccoli for an added crunch.

Storage Recommendation

Store leftover Keto Butter Paneer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If reheating, heat it in a pan over low heat with a tablespoon of butter or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, you can also microwave it, but be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent it from drying out. Add a splash of cream or butter when reheating for extra creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, you can replace the butter with ghee and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Can I freeze Keto Butter Paneer? Yes, it can be frozen for up to a month. Just let it cool completely before freezing.

Is paneer a good protein source on keto? Yes, paneer is high in protein and low in carbs, making it a great option for a keto diet.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 375
• Total Carbs: 8g
• Net Carbs: 5g
• Fat: 30g
• Protein: 22g

We’d love to hear how this recipe turned out for you! 💬 Drop a comment below and share your experience—we can’t wait to hear your thoughts. 😊 Make sure to follow us on Facebook for more delicious keto recipes, and don’t forget to bookmark our site for all your low-carb favorites. If you’re new to keto, start your transformation with ease using our Keto Diet Plan for Beginners: Step-by-Step Guide—the perfect resource to kick off your journey!