Paneer Tikka Masala with Whole Wheat Roti

Marinating the paneer in yogurt and spices before it goes into the pan gives it a chance to actually absorb flavor, rather than just sitting on top of a sauce that's doing all the work.

Paneer keeps this dish vegetarian while still delivering a satisfying, protein-rich main, and the cashew paste stirred into the tomato gravy is what gives it that rich, slightly nutty body without needing extra cream. Making the roti from scratch is optional but worth it — a simple whole wheat dough rolled thin and cooked on a hot tava gives you something warm to scoop the gravy up with. Garnish with fresh cilantro right before serving.