Here's a delicious and easy recipe for Matar Paneer, a popular North Indian dish made with green peas (matar) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a spiced tomato gravy.
Matar Paneer Recipe
Ingredients
For the Gravy:
- 200 grams fresh paneer (cubed)
- 1.5 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 3 medium-sized onions (finely chopped)
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes (pureed)
- 4-5 green chilies (slit, adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 5 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 3 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Fresh dhaniya
- 2 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
Instructions
Prepare the Paneer: If you prefer soft paneer, soak the fresh cubed paneer in hot water for about 10 minutes, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Gravy:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
Add Spices:
- Mix in turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Cook the spice mixture for a couple of minutes.
Incorporate Peas and Paneer:
- Add the green peas and mix well. If using frozen peas, you can add them directly without thawing.
- Add water to adjust the consistency of the gravy (less water for a thicker gravy, more for a thinner one). Bring it to a simmer.
- Gently fold in the paneer cubes and let them cook in the gravy for about 5-7 minutes.
Finish with Garam Masala:
- Sprinkle garam masala over the top and stir gently. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice.
Tips
- You can add a splash of cream for a richer gravy.
- For a smoky flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke or using the "dhungar" method (smoking with charcoal).
- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.
Enjoy your homemade Matar Paneer!
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