What is Matar Paneer Recipe?
Today, we’ll take you on a delectable journey to explore the flavors of a classic North Indian dish – Matar Paneer Recipe. This vegetarian delight combines the goodness of green peas (matar) with the rich creaminess of paneer (Indian cottage cheese).
Why Matar Paneer is a Popular Choice
The popularity of matar paneer is due to its flavorful harmony, richness, and adaptability. This recipe suits everyone’s tastes, whether they are vegetarians or meat eaters. Due to its vast appeal, it is a standard in Indian households and restaurants all over the world.
Tips for the Perfect Matar Paneer
When making the gravy, you may improve the flavour by stirring in a little amount of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves).Increase or decrease the amount of red chilli powder to suit your taste preferences and change the amount of spice. You can swap out the paneer for tofu and the yoghurt with plant-based yoghurt to make a vegan version.
Matar Paneer Recipe: A Delicious and Nutritious Delight
Ingredients
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 250g paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed
- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
- 2 ripe tomatoes, pureed
- 1/2 cup fresh yogurt
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cream
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
Instructions
- Blanching the Green PeasBegin by blanching the green peas to retain their vibrant green color and ensure a slightly tender texture. To do this, bring water to a boil in a pot and add a pinch of salt. Add the green peas and let them boil for about 2 minutes. Drain the peas and immediately plunge them into ice-cold water. This process stops the cooking and preserves the color.
- Frying the PaneerIn a non-stick pan, heat a tablespoon of oil or ghee over medium heat. Paneer cubes should be added and fried till golden brown on both sides. When finished, take the paneer out and place it somewhere else.
- Making the GravyIn the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil or ghee. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Onions should then be added and sautéed until transparent. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears. The tomato puree should then be added and cooked until the oil begins to separate.
- Cooking ProcessSautéing the Onions and TomatoesWhen the gravy is prepared, turn down the heat to low and whisk the yoghurt in constantly to prevent curdling. Up until the oil surfaces once more, cook the mixture for a few minutes.
- Adding Spices and FlavoringsThe spices can now be added. Salt, garam masala, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and red chilli powder should all be added to the stew. Ensure that the spices cover the mixture evenly by giving it a good stir.
- Combining Peas and PaneerAdd the blanched green peas and fried paneer cubes to the gravy. Gently mix everything together, making sure the peas and paneer are coated with the flavorful gravy. Allow the dish to simmer for a few more minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
- Serving and GarnishingServe the hot and savory Matar Paneer with steamed rice, naan, or roti. Garnish the dish with a drizzle of fresh cream and some finely chopped coriander leaves. The creamy texture of the dish combined with the aromatic spices is sure to leave your taste buds satisfied and craving for more.