Roasted Paneer with Pak Choi

Instructions

1. 1

   Pat the paneer cubes dry with paper towels and toss them in a bowl with cornflour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

   Tip: Drying the paneer helps it crisp up beautifully when roasted.

2. 2

   Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

3. 3

   Working in batches, sear the paneer cubes for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, then transfer to a plate. This should take about 8-10 minutes total.

   Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan; give each piece space to develop a golden crust.

4. 4

   In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, then add minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

5. 5

   Add the pak choi halves to the skillet, cut-side down, and sear for 2 minutes until lightly caramelized.

   Tip: The high heat creates a flavorful brown surface on the pak choi.

6. 6

   Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce, then return the paneer to the skillet. Stir gently to combine.

7. 7

   Drizzle sesame oil and lime juice over the mixture, sprinkle with red chilli flakes, and bring to a gentle simmer on the stovetop for 3 minutes.

8. 8

   Transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 10 minutes, allowing the pak choi to become tender and the flavors to meld.

   Tip: Using a cast-iron skillet means you can take it straight from stovetop to oven.

9. 9

   Remove from the oven and garnish generously with black sesame seeds and chopped spring onions before serving.