Step 1: Prepare the spice mix

In a microwave-safe bowl, add 1 tsp ginger garlic paste, 1 1/2 tsp kasturi methi, salt to taste, black pepper to taste, and 1 tsp cumin powder. Mix these dry spices well. Then, add approximately 1 tablespoon of oil and mix again until a uniform paste forms.

Step 2: Coat the paneer

Add the 350g paneer cubes to the prepared spice mix. Gently mix with a spatula or spoon until all paneer pieces are evenly coated with the spice mixture.

Step 3: First Microwave Cook

Place the bowl with the coated paneer in the microwave. Cook for 2 minutes at full power (based on a 1000-watt microwave). This step helps to cook off the raw smell of the ginger garlic paste and infuse flavors into the paneer.

Step 4: Add curd

After the first microwave cycle, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave. Add 4 tablespoons of curd to the paneer mixture. Mix gently to combine the curd with the paneer and spices.

Step 5: Add cream and second microwave cook

Add 1/2 cup of malai or cream (such as half-and-half or whipping cream) to the mixture. Mix well to ensure the cream is evenly distributed. Return the bowl to the microwave and cook for another 2 minutes at full power.

Step 6: Final seasoning

Remove the bowl from the microwave. Add a pinch of sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of garam masala to the malai paneer. Mix everything thoroughly to incorporate the final seasonings.

Step 7: Serve

Your delicious Malai Paneer is now ready to be served hot. Enjoy it with freshly made naan, roti, or paratha.

• Always use a microwave-safe bowl for cooking in the microwave.

• Adjust microwave cooking time based on your microwave's wattage (this recipe uses a 1000-watt microwave).