Cherry Tomato Paneer Saute Recipe

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €6.68 · €1.67/serving

• 6 scallions, finely sliced (use both white and green parts for added flavor and color)Est. price €0.30–€0.60
• 1 (1") knob of ginger, cleansed and cut into thin matchsticks (peeling ginger with a spoon helps preserve more flesh)Est. price €0.20–€0.50
• 2 fresh garlic cloves, thinly sliced (crush garlic with the flat side of a knife to release aroma)Est. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1 tsp. whole coriander seeds (toast in a dry pan until fragrant before using)Est. price €0.15–€0.30
• 1 tsp. whole cumin seeds (lightly crush the seeds to enhance their flavor)Est. price €0.15–€0.30
• 1 tsp. black mustard seeds (heat mustard seeds in oil until they start to pop for a nutty taste)Est. price €0.15–€0.35
• 1 tsp. Kashmiri chile powder or 1 tsp. cayenne powder (adjust amount based on desired heat level)Est. price €0.25–€0.50
• 1 tsp. ground turmeric (mix with a little oil to prevent clumping)Est. price €0.20–€0.40
• 3 Tbsp. premium extra-virgin olive oil, divided (use high-quality olive oil for better taste)Est. price €0.45–€0.90
• Kosher salt (season to taste at each stage of cooking)Est. price €0.02–€0.05

Steps

1. 1

   Combine scallions, ginger, and garlic in a medium bowl. Crush coriander seeds coarsely using a mortar and pestle or the side of a chef’s knife. Add the crushed coriander seeds to the vegetable mixture along with cumin seeds, black mustard seeds, chile powder, and turmeric. Set aside for later use.

2. 2

   Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the paneer slices in a single layer in the pan and cook until they develop a golden brown color on the underside, which should take around 1 minute. If the paneer sticks to the pan, allow it to cook a bit longer until it easily releases. Using a slotted spatula or spoon, carefully move the paneer to a plate while trying to leave behind as much oil in the pan as you can. Flip the paneer slices so that the browned side is facing up and generously season them with salt.

3. 3

   Lower the heat to a medium setting on the stove and pour in the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil into the skillet. Proceed to cook the set-aside scallion mixture, stirring frequently, until the scallions have softened and the mustard seeds start to crackle, which should take around 2 minutes.

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• Cultural note

  Paneer is a popular ingredient in Indian cuisine, and this recipe combines traditional Indian spices like cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and turmeric. The use of Kashmiri chile powder adds a touch of heat and flavor commonly found in North Indian dishes.

• Seasonal note

  Cherry tomatoes and sugar snap peas are typically in season during the summer months, making this dish perfect for a summer meal. Fresh mint leaves can also be easily sourced during this time.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of protein from paneer, essential vitamins A and C from cherry tomatoes, and fiber from the vegetables. However, it is high in fat and saturated fat, so it's recommended to consume in moderation.