Matar Paneer is a classic North Indian dish that combines soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cubes with vibrant green peas in a luscious tomato-based gravy. The dish is rich in aromatic spices like garam masala, turmeric, and coriander, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. It’s a popular vegetarian delicacy enjoyed with naan, roti, or rice, offering a delightful combination of creamy texture and spicy-sweet taste.
Here’s a basic recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated or minced
- 2-3 medium tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water
Other Ingredients:
- 250g paneer, cubed
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves), crushed (optional)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cinnamon stick and cloves, let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for a couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
- Add red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook the spices for a minute.
- Pour in water and let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes on medium heat.
- Add paneer cubes and peas to the gravy. Stir gently and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- If using kasuri methi, crush it between your palms and sprinkle it into the gravy. Mix gently.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice!
Feel free to adjust the spice levels and consistency of the gravy according to your taste preferences. Enjoy your homemade matar paneer!
