Tawa Paneer Masala

Paneer Tawa Masala, is a simple, easy to put together special dish. It is a combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Ideally this dish gets prepared on a flat tawa and hence the name paneer tawa masala. This is a very creamy and rich recipe without any cream or even cashew nuts. Addition of bell peppers is optional but recommended as they add a nice crunch in contrast to soft paneer cubes. You can cook this on a tawa if possible but normal pan also works well. 

INGREDIENTS:

Cottage cheese 250 gms 
Large onion 1 
Medium green bell pepper 1 (Finely chopped)
Chopped medium tomatoes 3 (Finely chopped)
Medium garlic 4 to 5 (Crushed)
Ginger 1 inch (Crushed)
Green chili 2
Carom seeds ½ tsp 
Coriander powder 1 tsp 
Red chilli powder ¼ tsp 
Turmeric powder ¼ tsp
Pav bhaji masala 1 tsp (Substitution: ½ tsp garam masala + ¼ tsp dry mango powder)
Butter/oil 2 tbsp 
Crushed kasuri methi ½ tsp
Salt as required
Few chopped coriander leaves for garnish

METHODS:

1. Add the chopped tomatoes in a blender and make a smooth puree. keep aside.
2. Chop the paneer in ½ inch cubes.
3. Melt butter on a skillet.
4. Add the carom seeds and fry them for a few seconds or till aromatic.
5. Add the onions and saute till translucent.
6. Add the ginger-garlic paste, green chilies, finely chopped green bell pepper and saute for about 3 minutes.
7. Then add the red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder and pav bhaji masala. 
8. Stir well and saute for about a minute.
9. Add the tomato puree and salt.
10. Mix well and saute (about 8 to 10 minutes on a low flame) till you see butter/oil releasing from the sides and the masala has dried a bit. 
11. Add 1 or 2 tbsp of water and continue to saute.
12. Add the paneer cubes and mix well, so that the paneer cubes are evenly coated with masala.
13. Cook the paneer for 1 to 2 minutes. 
14. Add the crushed kasuri methi. Stir well and switch off the flame.

Garnish with coriander leaves and serve tawa paneer masala with chapatis, phulkas, naan or steamed rice accompanied with a few wedges of lemon slices and a side onion salad.