Methi Malai Paneer is a rich, creamy, and mildly spiced North Indian curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese), fresh fenugreek leaves (methi), and a luscious cream-based gravy. The slight bitterness of methi leaves perfectly balances the sweetness of cream and the softness of paneer, creating a truly royal dish.
It is a popular restaurant-style curry, often served with naan, paratha, or rice, and is loved for its delicate flavors and smooth texture.
Table of Contents
⭐ Why You’ll Love Methi Malai Paneer
- Mildly spiced and kid-friendly
- Creamy and luxurious in texture
- Perfect for festive or special meals
- A restaurant-style dish you can make at home
🧾 Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 200 g paneer (cut into cubes)
- 1 cup fresh methi (fenugreek leaves, finely chopped)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 1 medium tomato (pureed)
- 1 green chili (slit)
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- ¼ cup fresh cream (malai or heavy cream)
- 2 tbsp cashews (soaked and ground to paste)
- 2 tbsp oil or ghee
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
Spices:
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1-inch cinnamon stick
- 2 cardamom pods
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp kasuri methi (optional for extra flavor)
🍳 How to Make Methi Malai Paneer
Step 1: Prepare the Methi
- Wash and finely chop fresh methi leaves.
- Blanch them in hot water for 2 minutes, then drain to reduce bitterness.
Step 2: Make the Masala Base
- Heat oil and butter in a pan.
- Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon, and cardamom. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until raw smell disappears.
Step 3: Cook the Gravy
- Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates.
- Mix in turmeric, coriander powder, and a little salt.
- Add cashew paste and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring continuously.
Step 4: Add Methi & Cream
- Add the blanched methi leaves and cook for 3 minutes.
- Stir in cream and a little water to adjust consistency.
Step 5: Add Paneer
- Gently add paneer cubes and simmer for 5 minutes on low flame.
- Sprinkle garam masala and kasuri methi for extra flavor.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with fresh cream and serve hot with naan, paratha, or jeera rice.
💡 Tips & Variations
- For extra richness: Add milk along with cream for a smoother gravy.
- Vegan option: Replace paneer with tofu and cream with cashew cream.
- Less bitter methi: Always blanch or sauté methi before adding.
- Restaurant-style: Shallow fry paneer cubes lightly before adding to gravy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with butter naan, garlic naan, or tandoori roti.
- Tastes delicious with jeera rice or pulao.
- A great choice for dinner parties and festive meals.
❓ FAQs About Methi Malai Paneer
1. Can I use dried methi leaves (kasuri methi) instead of fresh?
Yes! Use 2–3 tbsp kasuri methi if fresh leaves are not available, but the flavor will be slightly different.
2. Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, the gravy can be made ahead of time. Just add paneer and cream before serving.
3. Is this dish spicy?
No, it’s mild and creamy, making it suitable for kids and those who prefer less spice.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Methi Malai Paneer is a creamy, comforting, and flavorful curry that brings together the unique taste of methi with the richness of cream and paneer. Whether for a festive celebration or a cozy weekend meal, this dish will impress your family and guests alike.
👉 Next time you crave a restaurant-style curry, try making Methi Malai Paneer at home and enjoy the magic of creamy flavors with soft paneer cubes!