Matar Paneer is a classic and delicious North Indian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and peas in a flavorful, spiced curry. It’s a popular vegetarian dish that is loved by many and is easy to prepare. Whether you are new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this recipe will help you make a tasty Matar Paneer with minimal effort.
What is Matar Paneer?
The name “Matar Paneer” comes from the two main ingredients: “Matar,” which is the Hindi word for peas, and “Paneer,” which refers to the soft, fresh Indian cheese. The dish is rich in flavor due to the mix of aromatic spices and the creamy texture of paneer, which pairs perfectly with the sweetness of green peas. It’s often served with naan, roti, or rice.
Ingredients for Matar Paneer
Here’s a simple list of ingredients to make Matar Paneer:
- 200g paneer (cubed)
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1-2 green chilies (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or ghee)
- ½ cup water (adjust for gravy consistency)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
How to Make Matar Paneer
Follow these simple steps to make a delicious Matar Paneer at home:
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Tomatoes
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan on medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds to the hot oil and let them splutter. Next, add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until golden brown. This step brings out the sweetness of the onions and is key for a flavorful base.
Once the onions are cooked, add the chopped tomatoes and 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste. Stir well and cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and start blending into the oil.
Step 2: Add the Spices
Now, it’s time to add the spices. Add ½ teaspoon turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon coriander powder, 1 teaspoon red chili powder, and salt to taste. Stir the mixture well so that the spices coat the onions and tomatoes. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the oil starts separating from the mixture.
Step 3: Blend the Mixture
Once the onions and tomatoes are well-cooked and the spices have melded together, turn off the heat and let the mixture cool down for a few minutes. After cooling, blend the mixture into a smooth paste using a blender or food processor. This paste will form the base of your curry.
Step 4: Cook the Curry Base
Now, return the blended mixture to the pan and heat it again on medium-low heat. Add 1 cup of green peas and cook for 2-3 minutes. Then, add 200g paneer cubes to the pan and mix gently. Be careful not to break the paneer. Add ½ cup of water to adjust the consistency of the gravy. You can add more water if you prefer a thinner gravy.
Step 5: Simmer the Dish
Let the curry simmer for 5-7 minutes on low heat, allowing the paneer and peas to soak up all the flavors. Stir occasionally, and check the seasoning. Add more salt or spices if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once your Matar Paneer is cooked and the gravy has thickened to your liking, turn off the heat. Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
Matar Paneer is now ready to serve! Enjoy this flavorful dish with naan, roti, or rice.
Tips for Perfect Matar Paneer
- Use fresh paneer: Fresh paneer makes the dish taste better. You can make it at home or buy it from the store.
- Adjust the spice level: If you like it spicy, add more chili powder or green chilies. For a milder taste, reduce the amount of spice.
- Creamy texture: If you want a creamier gravy, add a tablespoon of heavy cream or yogurt towards the end of cooking.
- Frozen peas work too: If you don’t have fresh peas, frozen peas are a great substitute. Just thaw them before adding to the curry.
Why Matar Paneer is a Favorite
Matar Paneer is a comforting and wholesome dish. The soft paneer, combined with the sweetness of peas, makes it a perfect vegetarian dish. It’s rich in protein and makes for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or serving guests, Matar Paneer is sure to impress with its bold flavors and easy preparation.
Conclusion
This Matar Paneer recipe is simple to make, but packed with flavor. It’s an excellent choice for anyone craving a delicious vegetarian curry. By following the simple steps, you can create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it with your favorite bread or rice and relish the taste of North India in the comfort of your home.