Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Cut Paneer

   Cut 200g paneer into small square-shaped cubes.

2. 2.Coat Paneer

   Transfer the cut paneer to a bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of corn flour and 2 pinches of salt. Gently mix by shaking the bowl and then lightly with hands to ensure the coating is even on all paneer cubes.

3. 3.Prepare Ginger-Garlic-Chilli Paste

   In a mortar and pestle, add 1 small piece of ginger, 3 cloves of garlic, and 2 green chilies. Crush them coarsely until a rough paste is formed.

4. 4.Fry Paneer

   Heat oil in a pan on medium flame. Add the coated paneer cubes and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove the fried paneer and set aside in a bowl.

5. 5.Temper Whole Spices

   In a separate kadai (or the same pan after removing excess oil), add 1.5 tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is lightly hot, add 1/2 teaspoon of fennel seeds, 2 cardamoms, 3 cloves, 1 small piece of cinnamon, and a few curry leaves. Let them splutter and become fragrant.

6. 6.Sauté Onion

   Add 2 finely chopped medium-sized onions and salt to taste. Sauté on medium flame, stirring continuously, until the onions turn a rich golden brown color.

7. 7.Add Ginger-Garlic-Chilli Paste

   Add the coarsely crushed ginger, garlic, and green chili paste to the sautéed onions. Sauté on low flame for about 1 minute until the raw smell of the paste disappears.

8. 8.Add Tomato and Powdered Spices

   Add 1 finely chopped medium-sized tomato. Mix well. Then add 1 teaspoon of pepper powder, 1.5 teaspoons of coriander powder, 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala, and 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder. Mix everything thoroughly with the onion-tomato mixture on low flame.

9. 9.Cook Masala

   Add a little water to the masala mixture. Mix well and cook on medium flame, stirring occasionally, until the masala thickens, the tomatoes are soft, and the oil separates from the mixture, indicating it's well cooked and the raw smell is gone.

10. 10.Combine Paneer and Masala

    Add the fried paneer cubes to the cooked masala. Mix gently for about 2 minutes, ensuring each paneer cube is fully coated with the flavorful masala.

11. 11.Garnish and Serve

    Finally, add a few chopped coriander leaves for garnish. Give it one last gentle mix and turn off the stove. Serve hot with your favorite rice dishes.