This curried spinach dish features paneer, an Indian cheese available in Indian or ethnic supermarkets. Substitute cubes of firm tofu or 1 cup of green peas if paneer is unavailable.

Heat oil for deep frying. Fry cheese cubes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Saute onions in a saucepan or wok with 3 tablespoons of the oil. "Splutter fry" garlic, garam masala, ginger and chili powder. Add spinach and tomatoes. If using green peas, mix in here. Lower heat and cook 20-30 minutes; until spinach cooks down into a pastalike consistency. Raise heat and "fimmer" until the oil floats to the top. Add the cheese or tofu. Heat and serve. Serve 2 as a main dish, 4 if served with other dishes.