Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Marinate Paneer

   Add 20 cubes of paneer to a bowl. Add 1/2 tsp chilli powder, 1/4 tsp turmeric, 1/2 tsp garam masala, 1 tsp ginger garlic paste, and 1/4 tsp salt. Mix well to coat the paneer cubes evenly with the spices. Marinate for 30 minutes.

2. 2.Sauté Marinated Paneer

   Heat 1 tbsp ghee in a pan. Add the marinated paneer cubes to the pan. Sauté for 2 minutes until the paneer is fried well and lightly golden on all sides. Keep the sautéed paneer aside.

3. 3.Prepare Dhaba Style Masala

   In a clean pan, add 2 tsp coriander seeds, 1 tsp cumin, 1/4 tsp pepper, 3 cloves, 2 cardamom pods, 1/2 inch cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp fennel (saunf). Roast the spices on a low flame until they turn aromatic. Grind the roasted spices into a fine powder.

4. 4.Initial Curry Sauté

   In a large kadai or deep pan, heat 2 tbsp ghee and 2 tbsp oil. Add 1 bay leaf, 2 cardamom pods, 1 inch cinnamon, 2 cloves, and 1 tsp cumin. Sauté on low flame until the spices turn aromatic. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 1 tsp ginger garlic paste. Sauté well until the onion turns golden brown.

5. 5.Add Dry Spices and Tomatoes

   Add the prepared dhaba masala, 1/4 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp chilli powder, and 3/4 tsp salt to the pan. Sauté on low flame until the spices turn aromatic and oil separates. Add 2 finely chopped tomatoes. Sauté well until the tomatoes become soft and mushy, and oil separates from the mixture.

6. 6.Incorporate Curd and Water

   Add 1/2 cup whisked curd to the tomato-onion mixture. Cook on low flame, stirring continuously, until the curd is well combined and oil separates again. Add 1/2 cup water and mix well, adjusting the consistency as desired.

7. 7.Combine Paneer and Simmer

   Add the fried paneer cubes to the gravy. Mix well to coat the paneer with the gravy. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavours to absorb into the paneer.

8. 8.Finishing Touches and Serve

   Open the lid and add 1 tsp crushed kasuri methi. Sprinkle 1/4 tsp garam masala and 2 tbsp finely chopped coriander. Mix well. Serve hot.