Paneer Saagu

Method

1. 1

   Prepare paneer: Cut 400g paneer into 1-inch cubes. Soak in warm water 10 minutes to keep soft. Drain.

2. 2

   Make saagu masala: Grind 1 cup fresh grated coconut, 4 green chillies, 1 tbsp coriander seeds, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp fennel, 4 cloves, 2 cardamoms and 1 small cinnamon to a smooth paste.

3. 3

   Fry onions: Heat 2 tbsp oil. Add 1 large finely chopped onion. Cook 10 minutes until golden.

4. 4

   Add ginger-garlic: Add 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste. Fry 2 minutes.

5. 5

   Add saagu masala: Add the ground saagu paste. Fry on medium heat 6-8 minutes until oil separates.

6. 6

   Add tomatoes: Add 2 chopped tomatoes. Cook 5 minutes.

7. 7

   Add water: Add 1.5 cups warm water and salt. Bring to a boil. Simmer 5 minutes.

8. 8

   Add paneer: Add paneer cubes gently. Fold to coat in the saagu.

9. 9

   Simmer: Cook on low heat 5-6 minutes until paneer absorbs the flavour.

10. 10

    Serve: Adjust salt. Paneer saagu should be fragrant and well-spiced. Serve with dosa, puri or chapati.