This Is the Creamy Paneer Masala I Make Over and Over

In a heavy bottom pan, heat up a tbsp of oil. Once hot, add the whole spices and sauté for 30 seconds. Then add in the onions, tomatoes, cashews, ginger, garlic, salt to taste, 1 tbsp red chili powder, and cook until the tomatoes are completely softened. Should take about 12-15 minutes.After the mixture is cooked and cooled, fish out all the whole spices and blend the mixture to a smooth puree. If you wish, at this stage you can strain the gravy.In the same heavy bottom pan, add butter and the remaining oil. Once the butter melts, add in the remaining red chili powder followed by the prepared gravy. If the gravy is too thick, add ¼ to ½ cup of warm water.Cover the pan and cook the gravy for 5 minutes stirring occasionally. (The gravy has the tendency to splatter, so get it off the heat when stirring.)In the meantime, cut the paneer into cubes and soak them in hot water for 10 minutes. After 5 minutes, add in kasuri methi, garam masala, sugar, and salt to taste. Cook for a minute. At this stage adjust the consistency to your liking.Lastly, add in the paneer, cilantro, and cream. Mix everything well and enjoy!