Kaju Butter Masala is a rich, creamy, and flavorful vegetarian dish made with cashew nuts (kaju) cooked in a smooth and spiced tomato-based gravy. It’s a popular North Indian dish often served with naan, roti, or rice. The buttery and creamy texture, along with the aromatic spices, makes it a comforting and indulgent meal.
Here’s a step-by-step recipe for making Kaju Butter Masala:

Kaju Butter Masala Recipe | What is the Recipe of Kaju Butter Masala
Ingredients
- For sauteing the cashew nuts
- 1 cup Cashew nuts
- 1 tbsp butter
- For the gravy
- 4 tomatoes chopped
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 1/2 cup Water
- 20 Cashew nuts
- 1 tsp ginger garlic paste
- 2 Green chilies slit
- 1/2 tsp red chili powd
- 1/2 tsp Garam masala powder
- 3 tbsp Cream
- 3/4 cup Water
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp methi powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- leaves corianderfor A few chopped and garnish
Instructions
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To saute the cashew nuts
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Heat the butter over a low flame in a pan.
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Once the butter begins to boil, add the cashew nuts.
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Saute until the nuts become golden.
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Remove and set aside.
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For the gravy
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Saute the bay leaf over a low flame for a few seconds.
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Add the chopped tomatoes and ½ cup water.
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Stir, and allow the mixture to simmer until the tomatoes become soft.
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Once the tomatoes soften, remove the mixture and allow it to cool.
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Grind the cashew nuts to a fine powder in a blender.
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Set powder aside.
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Remove the bay leaf from the tomato gravy and blend the tomatoes into a smooth puree.
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Heat the 2 tbsp butter over a low flame, and add the ginger garlic paste.
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Saute the paste for a couple of seconds.
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Add the cashew powder and stir constantly until the powder becomes golden.
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Add the tomato puree and stir well.
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After 3-4 minutes add the red chilli powder, the ¾ cup of water and the green chillies.
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Allow the mixture to simmer on a medium heat for two minutes.
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Add the salt and sautéed cashew nuts.
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Allow the mixture to simmer for another two minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add the garam masala powder, the cream and methi powder.
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Stir well for a minute.
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Remove curry from stove, pour into a serving bowl.
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Garnish with coriander leaves.
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RECIPE NOTES
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Serve with jeera rice or naan
Tips:
- Cashew Paste Consistency: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the cashews with some milk instead of water for a creamier consistency.
- Vegetarian Option: This recipe is entirely vegetarian. However, if you want a non-vegetarian variation, you can add grilled chicken or paneer to the dish.
- Adjusting Spiciness: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red chili powder or omit the green chilies.
Healthier Variations:
- Low-fat Version: You can use low-fat cream or even coconut milk as a substitute for heavy cream to reduce calories.
- Nuts: If you’re allergic to cashews, you can try using almonds or pistachios instead, though the flavor will change slightly.
Kaju Butter Masala is a rich and indulgent dish, perfect for a special dinner or celebration. The creamy texture and the cashews make it feel luxurious, and it pairs beautifully with flatbreads or rice. Enjoy!