Step 1: Prepare Kadhai Masala

In a pan, dry roast cumin seeds, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, black peppercorns, and dry red chillies on low heat until they become aromatic. Let the mixture cool down completely, then grind it into a coarse powder.

Step 2: Start the Gravy

Heat mustard oil in a kadhai. Once hot, add ghee. Then, add a bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cumin seeds, and a pinch of asafoetida. Allow the cumin seeds to splutter.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Aromatics

Add finely chopped onions to the kadhai and sauté until they turn translucent. Then, add chopped ginger, garlic, and green chilli. Continue to sauté for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.

Step 4: Cook the Masala

Lower the flame and add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Sauté for 20-30 seconds. Pour in the strained tomato puree, add salt, mix well, cover, and cook until oil separates from the masala.

Step 5: Air Fry Vegetables and Paneer

In an air fryer basket lined with a paper liner, place the diced paneer, mixed bell peppers, and onion. Drizzle with oil, and sprinkle with salt and Kashmiri red chilli powder. Mix everything well. Air fry at 200°C for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Combine and Finish the Curry

Add Kasuri Methi and the freshly ground Kadhai Masala to the simmering gravy. Mix well. Add the air-fried vegetables and paneer, along with some ginger juliennes. Stir gently to combine.

Step 7: Add Cream and Garnish

Stir in the fresh cream (malai). If the gravy is too thick, add a little water to adjust the consistency. Cook for one more minute. Garnish with fresh coriander and more ginger juliennes before serving hot.

• Roasting the kadhai masala fresh gives the best flavor and aroma.

• Straining the tomato puree results in a smoother, restaurant-style gravy.

• Air frying the veggies and paneer is an easy, less-oily alternative to pan-frying.

• Adding malai (fresh cream) or butter at the end makes the gravy richer.

• Add the sauces (soya, chilli) on low flame and before adding water to cook them properly for a better taste.

• Tofu can be used as a substitute for paneer.

• For a richer version, add more butter and fresh cream.

• Vegetables can be pan-fried instead of air-fried if an air fryer is not available.