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Matar Paneer

Matar Paneer
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Matar Paneer is a classic Indian vegetarian dish combining soft cubes of paneer cheese with tender green peas in a spiced, creamy tomato gravy. This hearty and flavorful recipe is simple to prepare in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. It features everyday pantry staples and balanced spices, offering a comforting meal that pairs beautifully with rice or Indian breads like naan or roti.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 250g paneer, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped or pureed
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
  • 2 tbsp oil or ghee
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/4 cup water or cream (adjust for consistency)

Spices

  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)

Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
  • Optional: A drizzle of cream or squeeze of fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Paneer and Peas: Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes. Lightly fry them in a pan with a bit of oil until golden brown on all sides. This gives the paneer a firmer texture and a delightful crust. If using frozen peas, blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain.
  2. Cook the Base Masala: In the same pan, heat oil or ghee. Sauté finely chopped onions until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. Stir in the tomatoes and cook until soft and oil starts separating, intensifying the flavor.
  3. Add Spices: Sprinkle ground cumin, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder into the tomato-onion mixture. Stir well to lightly toast the spices, releasing their aromas.
  4. Combine Peas and Paneer with Gravy: Pour in water or cream to create a luscious gravy. Add the green peas and fried paneer cubes. Gently mix and let simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and gravy to thicken slightly.
  5. Finish and Garnish: Turn off heat. Sprinkle finely chopped fresh cilantro on top. Optionally, add a drizzle of cream or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. Your Matar Paneer is ready to enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh paneer for the best texture; homemade paneer works wonderfully.
  • Toast spices before adding liquids to maximize flavor depth.
  • Simmer gently after adding paneer to avoid making it rubbery.
  • Adjust gravy consistency with water for lighter or cream for richer texture.
  • Bloom spices in hot oil before adding other ingredients for extra flavor punch.

Nutrition

Keywords: Matar Paneer, Indian vegetarian recipe, paneer recipes, green peas curry, Indian curry, quick Indian meal, vegetarian protein

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/matar-paneer/