Matar Paneer is a popular North Indian dish featuring paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and green peas in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce. It’s a vegetarian favorite, perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Matar Paneer: A Classic North Indian Delight
Matar Paneer is a beloved and timeless North Indian vegetarian dish that showcases the rich and comforting flavors of Indian cuisine. This dish features soft cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a tomato-based gravy with green peas (matar). Matar Paneer is known for its creamy and mildly spiced sauce that perfectly complements the tender paneer and sweet peas, making it a favorite among vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
Ingredients
For the Gravy:
- 3 medium-sized Tomatoes pureed
- 1 large Onion finely chopped
- 1 tablespoons Ginger-Garlic Paste
- 2 Green Chilies slit
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1 teaspoon Red Chili Powder
- 2 teaspoons Coriander Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1 tablespoon Dried Fenugreek Leaves (Kasuri Methi)
- 1/4 cup Cream
- 2 tablespoons Oil
- to taste Salt
For the Paneer and Peas:
- 250 g Paneer (Indian Cottage Cheese) cut into cubes
- 1 cup Green Peas (fresh or frozen)
- Water as needed
- Salt for boiling peas
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Boil the green peas in salted water until they are soft. Drain and set aside. If using frozen peas, just thaw them in warm water.
- Fry the Paneer: Optionally, you can shallow fry the paneer cubes until golden on each side. Set aside on paper towels. This step is optional; you can also use paneer as is.
- Make the Gravy: Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and fry for a minute.
- Add Spices and Tomato Puree: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir well. Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the sides of the pan.
- Add Peas and Paneer: Add the boiled green peas and paneer cubes to the gravy. Mix gently to avoid breaking the paneer.
- Simmer and Finish: Add garam masala and dried fenugreek leaves. Pour in the cream and simmer for 5-7 minutes. If the gravy is too thick, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.
Tips and Information
Conclusion:
Matar Paneer is a classic example of the flavorful and diverse vegetarian offerings of North Indian cuisine. Its creamy tomato gravy, tender cubes of paneer, and sweet green peas come together in a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed at home, in Indian restaurants, or as part of festive meals, Matar Paneer continues to be a beloved and comforting dish cherished by food enthusiasts around the world.Tips and Overview
- Paneer: Fresh, homemade paneer works best for this dish. However, store-bought paneer can also be used.
- Frying Paneer: Frying paneer is optional but adds a nice texture.
- Tomato Puree: Using fresh tomato puree gives the best flavor. Canned puree can be used in a pinch but may alter the taste slightly.
- Consistency: Adjust the gravy consistency according to your preference. Some prefer a thicker gravy, while others may like it a bit more fluid.
- Serving: Matar Paneer pairs well with Indian bread like naan or roti, as well as with rice varieties like basmati.