Chanar Dalna(ছানার ডালনা)

 **Chanar Dalna** is a traditional Bengali dish made with homemade paneer (chhena) cooked in a lightly spiced gravy. Here’s a step-by-step recipe:

### Ingredients:

For the chhena (paneer):

- 1 liter milk (full cream)

- 2 tablespoons lemon juice or vinegar

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the curry:

- 2 medium potatoes (cut into cubes)

- 1 medium tomato (chopped)

- 1 bay leaf

- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon ginger paste

- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)

- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder

- 1/2 teaspoon sugar

- Salt to taste

- 1/2 cup peas (optional)

- 2 tablespoons mustard oil or vegetable oil

- 1/2 cup water (for gravy)

- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

### Instructions:

#### 1. Prepare the Chhena (Paneer):

1. Boil the milk in a pan.

2. When it comes to a boil, reduce the heat and add lemon juice or vinegar.

3. Stir gently until the milk curdles and the whey separates.

4. Strain the curdled milk using a cheesecloth and wash it with cold water to remove the sour taste of lemon.

5. Tie the cloth and hang it for 30 minutes to drain excess water.

6. Knead the chhena (paneer) until smooth and soft, then shape into small flat discs or balls.

#### 2. Fry the Chhena:

1. Heat oil in a pan and lightly fry the paneer discs until golden brown.

2. Remove from oil and set aside.

#### 3. Prepare the Curry:

1. In the same pan, add the cubed potatoes and fry them until golden. Set them aside.

2. In the remaining oil, add bay leaf and cumin seeds. Let them crackle.

3. Add the chopped tomatoes and ginger paste. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and the oil separates.

4. Add turmeric, cumin powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir and cook for a minute.

5. Add the fried potatoes and peas (if using), stir them in the spice mixture.

6. Pour in water, cover, and let the potatoes cook for about 5-7 minutes.

7. Once the potatoes are soft, gently add the fried chhena discs.

8. Add sugar and garam masala, simmer for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors blend.

#### 4. Garnish and Serve:

1. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

2. Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Enjoy your homemade **Chanar Dalna**!