Butter Paneer Masala

Butter Paneer Masala:
Ingredients:

• 1 cup paneer 1/2" cubed (large pieces)
• 1 cup half and half or heavy cream
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 3 tbs of butter
• 2 tbs kasuri methi (dried methi leaves, optional)
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 2 green chillies slit (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt

Method: Melt butter in a pan on medium heat. Add the tomato puree, kasuri methi. Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes till the raw smell disappears and the butter bubbles through. Then add the green chillies, salt, chili powder, garam masala and continue to simmer for a couple more minutes. Add the cream and cook for 4 to 5 minutes. Finally, add the paneer pieces and cook for couple minutes.
Cooking Tips: Make your own tomato puree. Dice 4 or 5 ripe tomatoes and saute in 3 tbs of butter till the raw smell disappears for 10 to 12 minutes. Add 1/2 cup water, cool and run it through the blender. Then follow the steps as above. Home made paneer should be large and chunky or else it will disintegrate. Can use more or less paneer as you prefer. There is no need to fry paneer for this dish but tastes better if paneer is fried slightly. Can substitute thick, beaten yogurt for heavy cream. Stir in yogurt slowly, and simmer on low to avoid curdling.
Serving Tips: Serve hot and garnish with 2 tbs of finely chopped cilantro.