Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Kadai Masala

   In a hot pan, dry roast all the Kadai masala ingredients (3 dry red chillies, 1 tbsp cumin seeds, 1 tsp fennel seeds, 1 black cardamom, 4 cloves, 3 green cardamom, 1 small cinnamon, 10-12 black pepper, 2 tbsp coriander seeds) over low heat for 5-6 minutes, or until they turn aromatic. Do not over-roast. Remove from pan and let cool for 1 minute.

2. 2.Roast Kasuri Methi

   In the same hot pan, dry roast 1 tbsp Kasuri methi for 1 minute until crisp. Remove from pan and crush between your hands.

3. 3.Crush Kadai Masala

   Once cooled, crush the roasted Kadai masala in a grinder. It should be coarsely crushed, not a fine powder. You can also use a mortar and pestle.

4. 4.Sauté Aromatics

   In a hot pan, add 3 tbsp ghee. Once hot, add 2 dry red chillies and 1 bay leaf and roast for a minute. Then add 2 chopped onions and cook over low heat until they turn brown.

5. 5.Add Ginger Garlic

   Add 2 tbsp ginger garlic paste and 10-15 ginger juliennes to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes over low heat until the raw smell disappears.

6. 6.Cook Tomatoes and Spices

   Add 4 chopped tomatoes and salt to taste. Mix well. Then add 2 tbsp coriander powder, 1 tbsp red chilli powder, 1/2 tsp turmeric powder, 1 tsp roasted cumin powder, and 1 tbsp gram flour (besan). Mix all ingredients thoroughly.

7. 7.Simmer Gravy

   Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 5-6 minutes over low heat, or until the masala starts to leave oil on the sides of the pan.

8. 8.Combine with Vegetables and Paneer

   Add 2 tbsp of the prepared Kadai masala and mix well. Then add 1 diced capsicum, 1 diced onion, and 200 gms diced paneer. Mix gently to coat all ingredients with the masala.

9. 9.Add Water and Kasuri Methi

   Pour in 1/2 cup lukewarm water and mix. This helps the masala adhere to the vegetables and paneer without making the dish watery. Finally, add the crushed Kasuri methi and mix again.

10. 10.Final Cook and Serve

    Cover the pan and cook for another 5-6 minutes over low heat. The vegetables should remain slightly crunchy. Turn off the gas. Add 1 tbsp butter (optional) and mix. Serve hot.