Creamy pea & paneer curry

Halve each paneer block lengthways, then cut each half into 5 to give 10 rectangles from each block. Rinse in cold water, then set aside to dry on a plate lined with kitchen paper. Heat the coconut (or vegetable) oil in a large frying pan and lightly fry the paneer until golden (about 10 minutes). Transfer to a plate lined with kitchen paper, leaving the remaining oil in the pan. While the paneer is frying, in a small food processor, whizz the shallots, garlic, chilli and ginger to a paste (or finely chop by hand).

Reduce the heat under the pan and add the shallot mixture and cinnamon stick with the salt. Cook for 5-6 minutes, then add the curry powder and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add the tomatoes with half a can of water, the coconut milk and sugar. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened slightly.

Stir in the fried paneer and podded peas and bring back to the boil; cook for 5 minutes, then remove the cinnamon stick. Serve with steamed basmati rice, if liked.