Introduction: What is Matar Paneer?
Matar Paneer is a classic North Indian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and fresh green peas cooked in a spiced tomato gravy. This vegetarian delight is a perfect example of traditional Indian comfort food and is enjoyed in homes across the country. Whether you’re looking to prepare it for a family dinner or serve it at a special occasion, Matar Paneer is sure to be a hit. The best part about this dish is that it’s full of flavor, packed with nutrients, and easy to make at home!
Health Benefits of Matar Paneer
Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about the health benefits of this flavorful dish. Matar Paneer is a great source of protein, thanks to the paneer, and provides a good dose of fiber from the peas. Both of these ingredients help in maintaining muscle health, improving digestion, and keeping you full for longer. Furthermore, the spices used in the dish—such as turmeric, ginger, and coriander—are known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. If you’re looking for a nutritious, hearty meal, Matar Paneer is a great choice.
Ingredients for Recipe
For the perfect Matar Paneer, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 onions – finely chopped
- 5 to 6 garlic pods – finely chopped
- 1 green chili – chopped (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon oil – for cooking
- 1 tablespoon ghee – for added flavor
- 1 teaspoon ginger garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon salt – adjust as per taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder – adjust based on spice preference
- 2 tomatoes – finely chopped
- 1.5 cups water – adjust for the consistency of the gravy
- 1 cup fresh green peas – you can use frozen peas as well
- 400 grams paneer – cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon kasuri methi – dried fenugreek leaves, optional but adds flavor
- Chopped coriander leaves – for garnishing
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Base for the Gravy
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 tablespoon of ghee in a pan over medium heat. Once the ghee melts, add finely chopped onions and sauté them until they turn golden brown. This caramelization will bring out the sweetness in the onions, adding depth to the gravy.
Next, add the finely chopped garlic and green chili. Sauté them until the raw smell of garlic disappears, and the mixture becomes fragrant. At this point, add 1 teaspoon of ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the raw taste of the paste fades.
Step 2: Spicing Up the Gravy
Now it’s time to add the ground spices to bring richness to the gravy. Add 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder, 1 tablespoon coriander powder, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder, and 1 teaspoon red chili powder. Stir the spices well and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing them to release their flavors. You will notice the aroma of the spices filling your kitchen, signaling that the gravy base is ready.
Step 3: Cooking Tomatoes
Add the finely chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they soften and turn into a smooth, pulpy mixture. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. This will form the base of the gravy and should cook for about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Adding Water and Simmering
Once the tomatoes have softened, add 1.5 cups of water to the pan and mix well. This will create the gravy. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of water or cook it for longer.
Step 5: Cooking the Peas
Add 1 cup of fresh green peas to the gravy. If using frozen peas, add them at this stage as well. Let the peas cook in the gravy for another 5 minutes until they are tender but not overcooked.
Step 6: Adding Paneer and Kasuri Methi
Now, add the 400 grams of paneer cubes into the pan. Gently stir them into the gravy so they soak up the flavors. Be careful not to break the paneer cubes. Add 1 tablespoon of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) to the dish for an aromatic touch that’s characteristic of this dish.
Step 7: Garnishing and Serving
Once the paneer and peas are well incorporated into the gravy, let the dish simmer for another 3-4 minutes. Check the seasoning and adjust salt and spices if needed. Finally, garnish with fresh chopped coriander leaves to add a burst of freshness and color to the dish.
Serve your Matar Paneer hot with steamed rice, roti, or naan.
Tips for the Perfect Matar Paneer
- Paneer: Use fresh paneer for a soft texture. If you use store-bought paneer, soak it in hot water for 10 minutes to soften it.
- Consistency of Gravy: If you like a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of water, or you
- can add a bit of cream towards the end for a richer taste.
- Spice Level: Adjust the green chili and red chili powder to suit your spice preference. You can also add a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too sour.
- Ghee: The combination of oil and ghee in the recipe enhances the flavor, but you can use just oil if you prefer a lighter version.
Variations of Matar Paneer
While the classic Matar Paneer recipe is loved by many, there are some fun variations that you can try. These variations provide different textures and flavors while still retaining the essence of the dish.
1. Matar Paneer with Cashew Paste
For a creamier texture, add cashew paste to the gravy. Blend a handful of cashews with a little water to make a smooth paste and add it to the gravy after cooking the tomatoes. This gives the dish a rich and velvety texture.
2. Matar Paneer with Cream
For a richer flavor, add a few tablespoons of fresh cream at the end. This variation gives the dish a luxurious, smooth texture.
3. Matar Paneer with Tofu (Vegan Version)
For a vegan version of this dish, substitute paneer with tofu. Tofu has a similar texture to paneer and absorbs the flavors of the gravy beautifully.
4. Matar Paneer with Roasted Masala
Roast the spices like coriander powder, cumin, and garam masala before adding them to the gravy. This step enhances the aroma and deepens the flavor profile of the dish.
How to Serve Matar Paneer
Matar Paneer pairs wonderfully with various Indian breads and rice dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- With Naan: Soft, fluffy naan is perfect for scooping up the rich Matar Paneer gravy.
- With Roti: Whole wheat roti is a great choice for a lighter meal.
- With Steamed Rice: Matar Paneer can also be served with steamed basmati rice for a wholesome meal.
- With Pulao or Jeera Rice: For a more festive touch, serve Matar Paneer with fragrant pulao or jeera rice.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Matar Paneer
Matar Paneer is a dish that brings together the best of Indian flavors: the richness of paneer, the sweetness of peas, and the warmth of aromatic spices. Whether you’re making it for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. It’s a nutritious, comforting meal that’s packed with protein and fiber. Plus, it’s easy to customize to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.
Try this simple and flavorful Matar Paneer recipe today and enjoy the true taste of Indian cuisine, and comment on my youtube channel @bakewithneetu
FAQs About Matar Paneer
1. Can I use frozen peas for Matar Paneer? Yes, frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe and are convenient if you don’t have fresh peas on hand.
2. Can I make Matar Paneer ahead of time? Yes, Matar Paneer can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it before serving.
3. Is Matar Paneer gluten-free? Yes, Matar Paneer is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance.
4. Can I make Matar Paneer spicier? If you like it spicy, increase the amount of green chili and red chili powder to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Matar Paneer recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be enjoyed by everyone, whether vegetarian or not. Follow this recipe for a delicious, satisfying meal that will transport your taste buds to India!
