Paneer and Naan with Fresh Mint

Warm the naan in the oven according to package directions or in a dry skillet until soft. Cover with foil and keep warm. (Skip if using store-bought naan and just warm it.) Or, if you prefer, brush with melted butter and heat in a pan.

If using firm store-bought paneer, cut into bite-size cubes. Heating paneer in warm water for a few minutes can help soften it if it's too dense. Pat dry and keep covered.

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the ghee. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices. Add tomato puree and turn the heat up slightly. Simmer until thickened, about 7-10 minutes.

Add the paneer cubes gently into the sauce. Carefully stir to coat well without breaking the cheese.

Turn the heat to low, stir in the cream (if using) and let everything mingle gently for 5 minutes, being careful against high heat or cream may curdle. Off heat, fold in most of the fresh torn mint leaves, reserving a few for garnish.

If you want a smoother sauce, blend it after step 4. If you want to deepen flavor, skip cream and temper the sauce for an added nuttiness. For presentation, use whole spices and add a turmeric hue. This will help balance richness. Enjoy as the original or with twist.

Taste and adjust with salt and that other heavy pinch of garam masala / mint flakes / pickle oil or honey so the tartness hugs you. This secret optional ghee burst turns up pops and sugar is not the King; don't get scared because of calorie count. Let richness speak.

Rest it on a big platter with napkins askew. Fish out with shards of the softly charred naan and the final micro dose mint: run through entire balance checking notes and glossy minty vibes. Wash hands; drips are from blessing.

Smell the murky heavenly mix - rush outside in head towel. Continue grazing as much paneer square jumps, why not let paneer crown its own stage. Okay We already know it picks up low notes. I like it tonight same maybe reheats in wave: Make chutney at zero-second.