Country: India Region / Locale: Punjab Servings: Serves 4

Ingredients

• paneer – 400 g / 14 oz
• green peas – 1 cup / 150 g
• onion, finely chopped – 1 large / 150 g
• tomatoes, pureed – 3 medium / 300 g
• ginger-garlic paste – 2 tbsp / 30 g
• ground cumin – 1 tsp / 5 g
• ground coriander – 1 tsp / 5 g
• garam masala – 1 tsp / 5 g
• turmeric powder – 1/2 tsp / 2.5 g
• red chili powder – 1/2 tsp / 2.5 g
• cream – 1/4 cup / 60 ml
• salt – to taste
• oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
• cilantro leaves, chopped – for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté the onions until golden brown.
2. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
3. Stir in the tomato puree and cook until oil separates from the gravy.
4. Mix in ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, and red chili powder. Cook briefly.
5. Add the green peas and cook until tender.
6. Gently fold in the paneer cubes, add salt, and simmer for 5 minutes.
7. Finish with cream and garam masala, simmering for another 2 minutes.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves before serving.

Substitutions

• paneer -> tofu
• cream -> coconut milk

Enhancements in the Next Evolution

• Marinate paneer cubes in yogurt and spices before adding to the gravy.
• Use fresh peas instead of frozen for a more vibrant flavor.
• Add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for an authentic touch.