Makhani Gravy
Makhani Gravy, also known as Butter Gravy, is a luxurious and creamy sauce that originates from North Indian cuisine. This velvety smooth gravy is famous for its rich texture and indulgent flavor, making it a beloved accompaniment to a variety of dishes such as paneer, chicken, or vegetables. Makhani Gravy is characterized by its vibrant color, which comes from the use of ripe tomatoes and a generous amount of butter and cream. Its decadent taste and aromatic spices create a truly satisfying dining experience, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts worldwide.
Crafted with a blend of tomatoes, butter, cream, and a medley of aromatic spices, Makhani Gravy strikes the perfect balance between tangy, savory, and creamy notes. Its luscious texture and complex flavor profile make it an essential component in classic Indian dishes like Paneer Makhani and Butter Chicken. Whether enjoyed with naan, rice, or roti, Makhani Gravy is sure to elevate any meal with its irresistible taste and luxurious appeal.
Ingredients:
- 4 large tomatoes, chopped (4 बड़े टमाटर, कटा हुआ)
- 1 large onion, chopped (1 बड़ा प्याज, कटा हुआ)
- 4 cloves of garlic (4 लहसुन के लौंग)
- 1-inch piece of ginger (1 इंच का अदरक)
- 1 green chili (1 हरी मिर्च)
- 2 tablespoons butter (2 बड़े चमचे मक्खन)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (1 छोटी चमच काला जीरा)
- 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder (1 छोटी चमच कश्मीरी लाल मिर्च पाउडर)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala (1 छोटी चमच गरम मसाला)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (1/2 छोटी चमच हल्दी पाउडर)
- 1/2 cup cream (1/2 कप क्रीम)
- Salt to taste (नमक स्वाद अनुसार)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish (ताजा धनिया पत्तियाँ सजाने के लिए)
Instructions:
- Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and green chili to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and aromatic.
- Add chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they become soft and mushy, about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the tomatoes are cooked, turn off the heat and let the mixture cool down slightly.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend into a smooth paste.
- Strain the blended mixture through a fine sieve to remove any seeds or skin, if desired.
- Return the strained mixture to the pan. Add Kashmiri red chili powder, garam masala, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spices are well incorporated.
- Stir in cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Once the gravy reaches your desired consistency, turn off the heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Important Points:
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor and color in the gravy.
- Adjust the amount of green chili and red chili powder according to your spice preference.
- For a smoother texture, strain the blended mixture before adding spices.
Dishes that can be made with Makhani Gravy:
- Paneer Makhani
- Butter Chicken
- Dal Makhani (Butter Lentils)
- Vegetable Makhani
Storage:
Makhani Gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
To Sum Up…
Makhani Gravy is a decadent and flavorful sauce that adds richness and depth to a variety of Indian dishes. With its creamy texture and aromatic spices, it’s a versatile base that can be used to create classic favorites like Paneer Makhani and Butter Chicken. Whether served with naan, rice, or roti, Makhani Gravy is sure to impress with its irresistible taste and luxurious appeal, making it a beloved favorite in Indian cuisine.
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