Restaurant Style Paneer

This creamy, restaurant-style paneer curry is the perfect comfort dish, featuring tender cubes of paneer in a rich and flavorful curry that is infused with a homemade spice blend, earthy cumin, and warming garam masala. Fresh green peas add a delightful pop of sweetness, while tomatoes, yogurt, and kasuri methi bring the dish together into a luscious sauce. Served with naan or rice, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

TIP: If using packaged or frozen paneer, soak it in hot water for 20 mins to make it soft
Ingredients:
For the Masala:
2 tsp coriander seeds
1 tsp cumin seeds
1/4 tsp black peppercorns
3 whole cloves
2 green cardamom pods
2 black cardamom pods
1/2 inch cinnamon stick
1/2 tsp fennel seeds (saunf)
For the Marination:
10 oz paneer (cubed; if using packaged or frozen, soak in hot water for 20 minutes and drain)
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
1/4 tsp garam masala
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp ghee or oil (for frying paneer)
For the Curry:
2 tbsp ghee or oil
1 bay leaf
2 green cardamom pods
1 black cardamom pod
1 inch cinnamon stick
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
1/4 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp chili powder
3/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
1/2 cup plain yogurt (whisked)
1/2 cup water
1 cup frozen or fresh peas
1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed
1/4 tsp garam masala
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish when serving)