Matar Paneer Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 11, 2025

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Matar Paneer Recipe: A Delicious and Easy-to-Follow Guide

Are you looking for a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian dish that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion? Look no further than Matar Paneer, a classic Indian dish that combines the creamy texture of paneer cheese with the sweetness of peas. This recipe provides a simple yet delicious way to prepare this beloved culinary gem.

What is Matar Paneer?

Matar Paneer is a popular North Indian vegetarian curry made with paneer (Indian cheese), peas (matar), and a rich and flavorful tomato-based gravy. It's a versatile dish that can be served with rice, naan, roti, or paratha. The combination of creamy paneer, sweet peas, and fragrant spices creates a truly unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for home cooks of all levels. Here's what you'll need:

• For the Paneer:

  • 250g paneer, cubed (approx. 1 cup)
  • 1 tbsp oil or ghee for shallow frying

• For the Gravy:

  • 1 tbsp oil or ghee
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 inch ginger, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional, adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
  • 1/2 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder (haldi)
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup water (or more, as needed)
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Paneer: Gently shallow fry the paneer cubes in oil or ghee until lightly golden brown. Set aside. This step adds a delicious texture contrast to the final dish.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil or ghee in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the onions, ginger, garlic, and green chili (if using). Sauté until the onions soften.

3. Bloom Spices: Add the coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to prevent burning. This step releases the fragrant oils from the spices, intensifying the flavor of your Matar Paneer.

4. Add Tomatoes and Peas: Add the diced tomatoes and cook until they soften. This creates a flavorful base for your curry. Stir in the frozen peas.

5. Simmer: Add water, salt, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the peas are tender.

6. Combine and Finish: Gently stir in the fried paneer cubes. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve your delicious Matar Paneer hot with rice, naan, roti, or paratha. A dollop of plain yogurt or raita can also complement the dish perfectly.

Tips for the Best Matar Paneer:

• Don't overcook the paneer: Overcooked paneer can become rubbery. Gently fry it until lightly golden for the best texture.
• Adjust the spices to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to your preference.
• Use fresh ingredients whenever possible: Fresh ginger, garlic, and cilantro will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.

This recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade Matar Paneer! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!