One of my friends had a fractured ankle and could barely walk. Something that can cheer anybody is a snack! Moreover, my friend's a foodie and had an intense craving for spicy Paneer tikka masala. So there goes my story that led to this exotic preparation of the Indian cuisine.
Paneer: About 20 - 1/2 inch cubes
Peppers (Serrano or green chillies): 1 or 2 (depending on how spicy you like your food!!!)
Onions: 2 (medium sized - thinly sliced)
Tomatoes: 1 (medium sized - finely chopped) or 3 tblsp tomato puree
Turmeric powder: 1/4 tsp
Coriander powder: 3/4 tspCorn starch: 1 tblsp
Sugar: 1/2 tsp
Garam masala: 1/4 tsp
Salt to taste
Cilantro: 2-3 stems (chopped)
Marinade:
Chilli powder: 1 tsp
Coriander powder: 1 tsp
Crushed ginger: 1 tblsp
Crushed garlic: 1 tblsp
Salt: 1/2 tsp
Vegetable oil: 2-3 tblsp
Yogurt: 1 tblsp
Procedure:
In a bowl, mix the ingredients of the marinade. Add the paneer cubes to it and rub each piece to evenly spread the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour. Heat oil in a pot and saute the marinated paneer cubes for about 3-5 minutes till they turn golden brown in color. Keep aside. You can choose to use the same pot to make the gravy.
Gravy:
Heat oil in a pot. Saute green chillies for about a minute, add onions and saute till they turn translucent. Mix in chopped tomatoes or puree and fry until oil separates from the mixture. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder and salt. In a small bowl, pour 4-5 table spoons of water and mix in the corn starch. Add this to the pot. If you want it saucy, I'd recommend you add about 3-4 additional spoons of water. Cook for about 1 or 2 minutes. Add sugar and garam masala. Mix in the paneer cubes. Cook for about a minute. Garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve with hot Naan or rice. I definitely prefer Naan :)
