Matar Paneer Recipe

Introduction:

Matar Paneer Recipe is a classic North Indian dish that beautifully combines the flavors of fresh green peas (matar) and Indian cottage cheese (paneer) in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy. This vegetarian delight is a staple in many Indian households and is often found on restaurant menus worldwide. The harmonious blend of spices and the comforting texture of paneer make it a favorite for all occasions, from everyday meals to festive celebrations.

In this blog, we will explore the origins of Matar Paneer Recipe, delve into the essential ingredients that give it its distinctive taste, and provide a step-by-step guide to preparing this delectable dish at home. We will also share some pro tips to ensure your Matar Paneer Recipe turns out perfect every time and include a few beautiful quotes to inspire your culinary journey. Along the way, we’ll feature images to guide you through each step.

About Matar Paneer

Matar Paneer hails from the rich culinary traditions of North India, where dairy products like paneer play a central role in the diet. This dish is particularly popular in Punjab and Uttar Pradesh but is enjoyed across the entire subcontinent. The creamy texture of paneer combined with the sweet and tender peas, all enveloped in a spiced tomato gravy, creates a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist.

Traditionally, Matar Paneer is served with Indian breads like naan, roti, or paratha, but it also pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or pulao. It’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and preferences, making it a perfect choice for family meals or special gatherings.

Ingredients for Matar Paneer:

for the Gravy:

• 250 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or cashew paste
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 2-3 cloves
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

For the Paneer:

• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Paneer

• Marinate the Paneer: In a bowl, mix the paneer cubes with turmeric powder, red chili powder, and a pinch of salt. Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes.
• Sauté the Paneer: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the marinated paneer cubes and sauté until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove the paneer from the pan and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Prepare the Gravy

• Heat Oil: In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and cloves. Sauté for a minute until the spices release their aroma.
• Sauté Onions: Add the finely chopped onions and green chilies to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
• Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
• Add Tomato Puree: Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture. This process can take about 10-12 minutes.
• Add Spices: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Cook the Peas and Combine

• Add Peas: Add the green peas to the gravy and mix well. If using fresh peas, you might need to cook them a bit longer until they are tender.
• Add Water: Add about 1 cup of water to the pan to create a gravy. You can adjust the amount of water depending on the consistency you prefer.
• Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the peas are cooked through.

Finish the Dish

• Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream or cashew paste. This will give the gravy a rich, creamy texture. Cook for another 2 minutes.
• Add Paneer: Gently fold in the sautéed paneer cubes. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Add Garam Masala: Sprinkle garam masala over the top and mix well.
• Garnish: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

“The best memories are made around the table.”

pro tips:

• Fresh Paneer: Use fresh, high-quality paneer for the best results. Homemade paneer is even better as it is softer and fresher.
• Creamy Gravy: For a richer gravy, you can use cashew paste instead of cream. Soak cashews in warm water for 15-20 minutes, then blend to a smooth paste.
• Balancing Spices: Adjust the level of spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red chili powder and green chilies.
• Sautéing Paneer: Sautéing the paneer before adding it to the gravy helps to keep it firm and prevents it from crumbling in the sauce.
• Fresh Peas: If using fresh peas, blanch them in hot water for a few minutes before adding them to the gravy to ensure they cook evenly.

conclusion:

Matar Paneer is a delightful and versatile dish that brings the rich flavors of North Indian cuisine to your table. By following this detailed recipe and incorporating the pro tips, you can create a delicious and authentic Matar Paneer at home. Whether you’re enjoying it with family for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its creamy texture and flavorful taste.

So, gather your ingredients, embrace the process, and enjoy the journey of creating this beloved Indian delicacy. Happy cooking!