A rich and creamy Indian dish featuring marinated paneer cubes grilled to perfection and simmered in a spiced tomato-based gravy.
250 grams paneer, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon ginger paste
1 tablespoon garlic paste
1 teaspoon red chili powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 large tomatoes, pureed
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1/2 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
In a mixing bowl, combine yogurt, ginger paste, garlic paste, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, ground coriander, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well to form the marinade.
Add the paneer cubes to the marinade and gently coat them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the grill or oven to 200°C (390°F). Thread the marinated paneer cubes onto skewers or place on a baking tray lined with foil.
Brush the paneer with a little vegetable oil and grill or bake for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway, until lightly charred and cooked. Remove and set aside.
Heat butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown, about 8 minutes.
Add the pureed tomatoes and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil begins to separate from the masala.
Add salt to taste and crushed kasuri methi. Stir well.
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
Add the grilled paneer cubes to the gravy and gently mix to coat them with the sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot with naan or basmati rice.