Name: Chanar Dalna
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 1 servings
Ingredients: 0 For the Paneer and Potato Mix:; 0 200g paneer (cottage cheese), cut into cubes; 0 2 medium (sized potatoes, cut into cubes); 0.5 tsp turmeric powder; 0.5 tsp red chili powder; 0 Salt to taste; 1 tbsp low-fat yogurt; 0 For the Gravy:; 0 1 large onion, finely chopped; 0 2 tomatoes, pureed; 0 1/2 (inch piece of ginger, grated); 0 2 (3 cloves of garlic, minced); 0.5 tsp cumin seeds; 0.5 tsp turmeric powder; 0.5 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference); 1 tsp coriander powder; 0.5 tsp garam masala; 0.5 tsp sugar (optional); 0 Salt to taste; 1 tbsp oil (use a healthier oil like olive or canola); 0 Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

In a bowl, mix the paneer and potato cubes with turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and yogurt. Let them marinate for about 15-20 minutes.
Heat a non-stick pan or use a non-stick cooking spray to reduce the amount of oil used.
Roast the marinated paneer and potatoes until they turn slightly golden. Set them aside.
In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of oil and heat it.
Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Add grated ginger and minced garlic, and sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw aroma disappears.
Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and a pinch of salt.
Sauté the spices for a few minutes until they release their aroma.
Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
You can add a little sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, but this is optional.
Add the roasted paneer and potatoes to the gravy and mix well.
Add some water to achieve your desired consistency. Simmer for a few minutes until the paneer and potatoes absorb the flavors.
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or whole wheat roti.
Note- This healthier version of Chanar Dalna reduces the amount of oil and uses non-stick cookware to make it a more wholesome choice. You can further adjust the spice level to your liking and enjoy this classic Bengali dish with less guilt.