Paneer Vorta(পনির ভর্তা)

 Bengali-style Paneer Vorta (also called "Chhena Bharta") is a simple, flavorful mashed paneer (Indian cottage cheese) dish, often eaten with rice. Here’s how you can make it:

### Ingredients:

- 200g paneer (cottage cheese)

- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)

- 2-3 green chilies (finely chopped)

- 2 cloves of garlic (finely chopped or grated)

- 1 tablespoon mustard oil (for authentic Bengali flavor)

- 1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)

- 1 small tomato (optional, finely chopped)

- Salt to taste

- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder

- ½ teaspoon roasted cumin powder (optional)

- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for tanginess)

### Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Paneer**:

   - Crumble the paneer or mash it well with your hands until smooth and without large chunks.

2. **Heat the Mustard Oil**:

   - In a pan, heat mustard oil until it starts to smoke slightly. This step is crucial for the distinct Bengali flavor.

   - Once hot, reduce the heat.

3. **Add Aromatics**:

   - Add the chopped onions and sauté them until soft and golden.

   - Add the chopped garlic and green chilies and fry them for a minute until the raw smell of garlic disappears.

4. **Add Tomatoes (Optional)**:

   - If using tomatoes, add them now and cook until they soften and blend well with the onions and spices.

5. **Mix Spices**:

   - Add turmeric powder and roasted cumin powder (if using). Stir well for a few seconds.

6. **Add Paneer**:

   - Add the crumbled or mashed paneer to the pan. Mix everything together so that the paneer gets coated with the spices and onions.

   - Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

7. **Season**:

   - Add salt to taste and mix well.

8. **Final Touches**:

   - Turn off the heat and stir in the chopped coriander leaves.

   - Optionally, you can add a few drops of lemon juice for a bit of tang.

9. **Serve**:

   - Serve warm with hot rice or enjoy as a side with chapati or paratha.

This dish is simple yet delicious, with a smoky, spicy, and earthy flavor thanks to the mustard oil and garlic. Enjoy your Bengali-style Paneer Vorta!