Recipe: Chettinad Paneer Fry

Chettinad Paneer fry is a South Indian version of Paneer masala. A fiery mix of stir-fried paneer cubes and onion-tomato based gravy tastes heavenly-thanks to the authentic, wholesome South Indian spices. This is one of the most-loved recipe from the tradational kitchens of the South.

Cookd

1. In a bowl, add cornflour, maida / all purpose flour, salt, pepper and water to form a thick batter.

2. Add the paneer cubes and coat each piece with the batter.

3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan. fry the paneer pieces until crispy. it would take around a minute. remove and keep aside.

4. Grind the grated coconut, cashews with water to prepare the coconut paste. set aside.

5. Heat a kadai, add coconut oil. add mustard seeds, once the mustard seeds splutter add dried red chilli, onion. saute until the onions are translucent.

6. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell leaves. add the curry leaves.

7. Add the tomatoes and cook until the tomatoes are mushy.

8. Add turmeric powder, kashmiri red chilli powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, salt and water. saute until the spices are cooked.

9. Add the ground coconut paste and cook for 2 minutes.

10. Add the deep-fried paneer cubes and mix well. ensure all the pieces of paneer are coated with the masala.

11. Add coriander leaves, mix well and remove from heat.

12. Serve hot as an appetizer.