Butter Chicken Veg Recipes Of India Made Easy And Delicious

Butter chicken is a beloved classic in Indian cuisine, known for its rich, creamy tomato-based sauce and aromatic spices. Traditionally made with chicken, this dish has inspired countless vegetarian adaptations that bring the same indulgent flavors without meat.

India’s diverse range of vegetables like paneer, mushrooms, cauliflower, and bell peppers make for perfect substitutes, creating hearty and satisfying butter chicken veg recipes that cater to vegetarians and vegans alike.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some delightful Indian butter chicken veg recipes that combine the essence of traditional butter chicken with wholesome vegetables. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a curious foodie, these recipes offer a wonderful way to enjoy the lusciousness of butter chicken in a plant-based form.

Get ready to dive into creamy, spiced goodness that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These butter chicken veg recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of Indian butter chicken while keeping things vegetarian. The creamy tomato gravy is rich and flavorful, enhanced with aromatic spices such as garam masala and fenugreek.

Using vegetables like paneer, mushrooms, or cauliflower adds texture and nutrition, making it a wholesome meal.

Not only are these dishes comforting and indulgent, but they also come together quickly with easy-to-find ingredients. Ideal for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests, these recipes are versatile and can be adjusted to your preferred spice level.

Plus, they pair beautifully with basmati rice or warm naan bread, making for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups paneer cubes (or firm tofu for vegan option)
• 1 large cauliflower, cut into florets
• 1 cup button mushrooms, sliced
• 3 tablespoons butter (use vegan butter if preferred)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger paste
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 2 teaspoons garam masala
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 400 grams canned crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan)
• 1 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, balances acidity)

Equipment

• Large non-stick skillet or frying pan
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Blender or immersion blender (optional, for smooth sauce)
• Serving bowl or dish

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop the cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Slice the mushrooms and cube the paneer. Set aside.
2. Sauté the paneer and vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the paneer cubes and lightly brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, add cauliflower and mushrooms and sauté until they are tender but still firm. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the onion and spices: Add remaining oil and butter to the pan. Sauté the finely chopped onion until golden brown. Add the minced garlic, ginger paste, and green chilies. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add dry spices: Stir in garam masala, turmeric, red chili powder, cumin, and coriander powders. Cook for a minute to release their aromas, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
5. Add tomatoes and simmer: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add salt and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes until the sauce thickens and the oil begins to separate from the masala.
6. Blend the sauce (optional): For a smoother butter chicken gravy, carefully transfer the sauce to a blender and pulse until creamy. Return to the pan.
7. Finish the sauce: Stir in the cream and dried fenugreek leaves. Adjust salt and spice as needed. Let it simmer gently for another 5 minutes on low heat.
8. Combine everything: Add the sautéed paneer, cauliflower, and mushrooms back into the sauce. Stir gently to coat the vegetables in the rich gravy. Cook for 3-4 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan twist, substitute paneer with firm tofu and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. You can also try adding other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or potatoes for variety.

If you like your butter chicken gravy extra creamy, add a tablespoon of cashew paste or ground almonds while simmering. To reduce cooking time, use pre-cooked or frozen vegetables.

For a smoky flavor reminiscent of tandoori chicken, try roasting the paneer and vegetables under a broiler or on a grill before adding them to the sauce.

Feel free to experiment with spice levels by adjusting the amount of chili powder and green chilies. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This butter chicken veg pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice or warm, buttery naan bread. For a healthier option, try serving it with whole wheat roti or millet-based flatbreads.

For a complete Indian meal, consider serving it alongside simple cucumber raita or a refreshing salad. You might also enjoy pairing it with other Indian favorites like Muthiya Kadhi Recipe or a light Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes to start your meal.

Conclusion

Butter chicken veg recipes bring the best of Indian culinary traditions to a vegetarian or vegan table without compromising on flavor or richness. These dishes are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the creamy, spiced goodness of butter chicken using wholesome vegetables and plant-based alternatives.

The versatility and ease of preparation make these recipes a must-try for home cooks who want to explore Indian flavors in a new light. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this butter chicken veg will win hearts with its comforting texture and bold spices.

For more Indian recipe ideas, don’t miss the delicious Instant Pot Rabbit Recipe or the crowd-pleasing Lamb Tenderloin Recipes.

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