Matar Paneer Recipe: A Flavorful Indian Delight

Welcome to this delightful article on the famous Indian dish, Matar Paneer Recipe. If you're a fan of Indian cuisine or looking to explore new flavors, you're in for a treat. In this article, we will dive into the origins of Matar Paneer, discuss its ingredients, and provide you with a step-by-step guide to preparing this mouthwatering dish at home. So, put on your chef's hat, and let's get started!

Matar Paneer Recipe: A Traditional Indian Favorite

Matar Paneer is a classic North Indian dish that combines tender green peas (matar) with soft cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a rich and aromatic tomato-based gravy. This flavorful dish is a popular choice among vegetarians and is enjoyed by people of all ages. The combination of sweet green peas and creamy paneer makes Matar Paneer a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients for Matar Paneer

To prepare Matar Paneer, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 200 grams paneer (cubed)
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or oil
• 1 medium-sized onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tomatoes (pureed)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chilies (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Matar Paneer Recipe Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare Matar Paneer:

• Sauté the Paneer: Heat ghee or oil in a pan and lightly fry the paneer cubes until they turn golden brown. Remove the paneer from the pan and set it aside.
• Prepare the Gravy: In the same pan, add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Then, add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for a minute until the raw aroma disappears.
• Add Tomato Puree and Spices: Pour the tomato puree into the pan and stir well. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix the spices thoroughly with the tomato-onion mixture and cook for a few minutes until the oil separates from the gravy.
• Introduce Green Peas and Paneer: Add the green peas to the gravy and mix well. Let it cook for a few minutes until the peas are tender. Then, gently add the sautéed paneer cubes to the gravy.
• Simmer and Season: Sprinkle garam masala over the dish and give it a gentle stir. Simmer the Matar Paneer on low heat for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
• Garnish and Serve: Remove the Matar Paneer from heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Matar Paneer Recipe Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh peas for Matar Paneer?

A: Yes, you can use frozen peas as a convenient alternative to fresh peas. Make sure to thaw the peas before using them in the recipe.

Q: Can I substitute paneer with tofu in Matar Paneer?

A: Yes, if you prefer a vegan or dairy-free version of Matar Paneer, you can substitute paneer with tofu. Follow the same steps as mentioned in the recipe.

Q: How can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?

A: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can simmer it for a longer time to reduce the moisture. To make the gravy thinner, you can add a little water or milk while cooking.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to Matar Paneer?

A: While Matar Paneer traditionally includes green peas and paneer, you can add other vegetables like capsicum (bell peppers) or carrots to enhance the flavor and texture.

Q: Can I make Matar Paneer in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare Matar Paneer in advance and store it in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Reheat it before serving and adjust the consistency if needed.

Q: Is Matar Paneer spicy?

A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to your preference. You can increase or decrease the amount of red chili powder and green chilies to suit your taste.

Matar Paneer is a flavorful Indian dish that combines the goodness of green peas with the creaminess of paneer in a delicious tomato-based gravy. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can create a delectable Matar Paneer dish in your own kitchen. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking to savor the rich flavors of Indian cuisine, Matar Paneer is sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy this traditional Indian favorite and savor every bite!