Lemoni Peppery Paneer

Step 1: Cut Paneer

Cut the paneer into desired shapes. The video shows cutting it into small cubes.

Step 2: Marinate Paneer

In a bowl, add the paneer cubes. Season with salt, 1/2 tsp white pepper powder, 1/2 tsp garlic crush, 1/2 tsp ginger crush, 1/2 tsp finely chopped mint leaves, and 1 tsp butter. Mix everything well until the paneer is evenly coated. Set aside.

Step 3: Grill Paneer

Heat a grill pan and add 1 tsp butter. Once melted, place the marinated paneer cubes on the grill pan. Grill until golden brown and slightly crispy on all sides. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In a separate pan, melt 1 tbsp butter. Add 1/2 tsp garlic crush and sauté until golden brown. Then add 1/2 tsp ginger crush and sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Add Cornflour and Onion

Add 1 tbsp cornflour to the pan with the sautéed aromatics and mix well. Immediately add 2 tbsp chopped onion and sauté until slightly softened.

Step 6: Prepare the Gravy Base

Pour 1 1/2 cups of water into the pan. Add salt as per taste (remembering the paneer is already salted), 1/2 tsp white pepper powder, and 1/4 tsp turmeric powder. Stir well and bring to a boil.

Step 7: Thicken and Flavor the Gravy

Add 1/2 tsp cornflour slurry to the boiling gravy to thicken it. Stir continuously until the gravy reaches the desired consistency. Then, add 1 tsp green chili sauce and mix.

Step 8: Combine with Paneer and Vegetables

Add the grilled paneer cubes to the gravy. Stir in 1/4 cup chopped capsicum, 1/4 cup chopped tomatoes, and fresh mint leaves. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender-crisp.

Step 9: Finish with Lemon Juice

Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1 tbsp lemon juice. Mix well.

Step 10: Serve

Serve the hot Lemoni Peppery Paneer with lachha paratha, chopped onions, and a lemon wedge.

• Adjust salt carefully as both butter and paneer marinade contain salt.

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of green chili sauce or add finely chopped green chilies.

• Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and textures.

• Use black pepper powder instead of white pepper powder for a different peppery note.

• Add other vegetables like bell peppers of different colors or zucchini for more variety.

• For a richer sauce, a splash of cream can be added at the end.