Matar Paneer is a popular North Indian curry made with paneer (cottage cheese) and green peas in a rich, spicy tomato gravy. This dish is loved for its creamy texture, rich flavors, and simplicity. Perfect for a comforting meal, it can be served with rice or Indian bread like naan or roti.
Ingredients List
- For Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- For Curry:
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh cream (optional)
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Heat oil and butter in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add Aromatics:
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Cook the Tomatoes:
- Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
- Spice It Up:
- Mix in coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Paneer and Peas:
- Gently add paneer cubes and green peas to the pan. Stir to coat them in the gravy.
- Simmer:
- Add water and bring the mixture to a boil. Cover and simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until peas are tender.
- Finish with Cream:
- Add fresh cream and garam masala. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.
Tips and Variations
- For Extra Creaminess: Add more cream or a dollop of yogurt.
- Vegan Option: Replace paneer with tofu and skip the cream.
- Spicy Version: Add chopped green chilies while sautéing onions.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 15g
- Fat: 18g
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftover Matar Paneer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or stovetop on low heat until hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Matar Paneer with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, naan, or whole wheat roti.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen peas?
Yes, frozen peas work well. Thaw them before adding to the curry. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Matar Paneer tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend well.
- Related Recipes: Palak Paneer Recipe, Aloo Gobi Recipe
- Cooking Techniques: How to Perfectly Sauté Onions
Try this easy and delicious Matar Paneer recipe today! Don’t forget to leave a comment, share your experience, and enjoy cooking!