Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Paneer

   Cut 200 grams of paneer into desired cubes. Transfer to a bowl. Add 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1 small spoon of red chili powder, and a pinch of turmeric powder. Mix well to ensure the spices coat the paneer evenly. Cover and set aside.

2. 2.Prepare Green Paste

   In a grinder, combine 2 small garlic cloves, 4 green chilies, 2 chopped onions, 1.5 inch ginger, a handful of coriander leaves, a handful of mint leaves, 2 cardamom pods, 3 cloves, and 2 small pieces of cinnamon. Add a little water as needed and grind into a smooth green paste. Set aside.

3. 3.Prepare Tomato Puree

   Chop 3 tomatoes and add them to the same grinder. Grind into a smooth puree. Set aside.

4. 4.Fry Paneer

   Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the marinated paneer cubes and fry for 2-3 minutes until they are lightly golden and slightly stiff. Remove the fried paneer and set aside, leaving the remaining oil in the pan.

5. 5.Cook Green Paste and Spices

   To the same pan with the remaining oil, add the prepared green paste. Fry the paste for about 5 minutes until its raw smell disappears. Then, add 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder, 1.5 teaspoons coriander powder, 1.5 teaspoons red chili powder, and 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder. Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes until the spices are fragrant and the color deepens.

6. 6.Add Tomato Puree and Adjust Consistency

   Pour in the tomato puree. Add water as needed to achieve a medium-thick gravy consistency. Add salt to taste. Cover the pan and let it come to a boil. Once boiling, stir and continue to cook for about 5 minutes, or until the gravy has slightly reduced and thickened.

7. 7.Combine Paneer and Garnish

   Add the fried paneer cubes to the simmering gravy. Stir gently to combine. Cover the pan and cook for 2 minutes to allow the paneer to absorb the flavors. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves. Turn off the stove.

8. 8.Serve

   Serve the simple paneer gravy hot with roti, naan, rice, or your preferred accompaniment.