Achari Paneer

Achari Paneer is a flavorful Indian dish where paneer (Indian cottage cheese) is cooked in a tangy and spicy pickling spice blend. Here's a simple recipe for Achari Paneer:

Ingredients:

• 250g paneer, cubed
• 2 tablespoons mustard oil
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1 teaspoon nigella seeds (kalonji)
• 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (methi)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional for extra richness)
• 1 tablespoon achari masala (pickle spice mix, available at Indian grocery stores)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon yogurt
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare Achari Masala:

   • Dry roast mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, nigella seeds, and fenugreek seeds. Grind them into a fine powder to make the achari masala.

2. Marinate Paneer:

   • In a bowl, mix the cubed paneer with 1 tablespoon of achari masala and yogurt. Allow it to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes.

3. Cook Paneer:

   • Heat mustard oil in a pan. Once hot, add the marinated paneer cubes and cook until they turn golden brown. Remove the paneer from the pan and set aside.

4. Prepare Spice Base:

   • In the same pan, add more mustard oil if needed. Add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, nigella seeds, and fenugreek seeds. Let them splutter.

5. Add Onions and Ginger-Garlic Paste:

   • Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they become golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for an additional minute.

6. Add Tomato Puree and Spices:

   • Add tomato puree and tomato paste (if using) to the pan. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
   • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and the remaining achari masala. Mix well.

7. Cook Paneer in Spiced Gravy:

   • Add the cooked paneer to the spice mixture. Stir gently to coat the paneer with the masala. Allow it to cook for a few minutes.

8. Adjust Seasonings:

   • Taste the curry and adjust salt and spices according to your preference.

9. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish the Achari Paneer with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Enjoy the delicious and tangy Achari Paneer!