You'll love sinking your teeth into Matar Paneer – it's a classic North Indian dish that'll make your taste buds dance! This scrumptious combo of tender paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and sweet green peas nestled in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce is a real crowd-pleaser. The key is balancing those flavorful spices just right. Start by frying up the paneer to get that perfect golden-brown sear, then let the aromatic spices mingle with the tomatoes. Stir in some cream for lush texture, and don't forget the fresh coriander leaves to top it off. Serve it up with naan or basmati rice for a meal that'll have you craving more.
Key Takeaways
- Matar Paneer is a classic North Indian dish that combines paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and green peas in a creamy, spiced tomato-based sauce.
- The dish has its origins in the Mughal culinary traditions, blending Indian and Persian flavors, and has evolved regionally over time.
- The key to a successful Matar Paneer lies in balancing the spices and using quality ingredients, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- The dish is versatile, allowing for customization with additional vegetables and spice blends, and can be made vegan by substituting paneer with tofu.
- Matar Paneer is often served with basmati rice or naan, providing a comforting and satisfying meal that can bring families and communities together.
History
Matar paneer, a beloved Indian dish, has long been a staple in households across the subcontinent.
It's a classic pairing of peas and paneer, a type of fresh cheese, that's been enjoyed for generations. The origins of this flavorful dish can be traced back to the Mughal Empire, when Indian and Persian culinary traditions merged, creating a melting pot of spices and ingredients.
Over time, matar paneer has evolved, with each region and household putting their own unique spin on the recipe. Whether it's the creamy texture, the burst of sweetness from the peas, or the savory notes of the paneer, there's something truly comforting about this dish that's captured the hearts of people all over India.
Today, it remains a beloved staple, often served alongside fragrant basmati rice or warm naan bread, bringing families and communities together through the power of delicious, time-honored flavors.
Recipe
Matar Paneer is a popular North Indian dish that combines the creaminess of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the sweetness of green peas. This flavorful dish is a staple in many Indian households and can be enjoyed with a variety of Indian breads or rice. For an extra indulgent twist, some cooks also add ground meat to the dish, creating a flavorful keema matar recipe. This adds a savory element to the dish, making it a hearty and satisfying option for meat lovers. Whether prepared with just paneer and peas or with the addition of keema, Matar Paneer is sure to be a hit at any Indian dining table.
The key to a delicious Matar Paneer lies in the careful balancing of spices and the quality of the ingredients used. The dish is versatile and can be easily adapted to suit individual preferences.
- 1 lb (450g) paneer, cut into cubes
- 1 cup (150g) green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (or to taste)
- 1 cup (240ml) tomato puree
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream or full-fat yogurt
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the garlic and ginger and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in the ground coriander, cumin, garam masala, and red chili powder. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, to toast the spices.
Pour in the tomato puree and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the paneer cubes and green peas, and gently stir to combine.
Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the peas are tender and the paneer is heated through. Stir in the heavy cream or yogurt and season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
To enhance the flavors of this dish, consider using freshly grated ginger and high-quality spices. Adjust the chili powder to your desired level of spice.
For a creamier texture, you can add a bit more cream or yogurt. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice.
Cooking Steps
First, fry the paneer cubes until they're a lovely golden brown.
Next, add in the tomatoes and spices and let it all simmer together.
Step 1. Fry Paneer Cubes Until Golden
Next, you'll want to fry the paneer cubes until they're a beautiful golden brown.
Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, gently add the cubed paneer in a single layer.
Let the paneer sizzle and fry, turning occasionally, until all sides are crispy and have a lovely golden hue, about 3-4 minutes total.
Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the paneer to steam instead of fry. Work in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
The key is to get that perfect sear on the paneer, locking in the flavor and creating a delightful texture.
Once the paneer is fried to perfection, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Now you're ready to move on to the next step in creating your delicious Matar Paneer dish!
Step 2. Add Tomatoes and Spices
With the perfectly fried paneer ready, it's time to build the flavors of this Matar Paneer dish. Grab those juicy tomatoes and dice them up nicely. Toss them into the pan with the golden paneer cubes.
Now, let's add in the aromatic spices! Sprinkle in some ground coriander, cumin, and red chili powder. Don't forget the garam masala – that'll give it a lovely warmth. Give everything a good stir, making sure the spices coat the paneer and tomatoes evenly.
Let it all simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The tomatoes will release their juices, creating a delicious sauce. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and the spices have bloomed. Your kitchen will be filled with the most enticing aroma!
Now that the base is ready, it's time to add the star ingredient – the fresh green peas. Get ready for a burst of sweetness and texture in every bite.
Step 3. Add Cream and Simmer
A splash of heavy cream will now elevate the Matar Paneer to new heights. Stir it in gently, allowing the luscious dairy to mingle with the fragrant spices and juicy tomatoes.
Watch as the sauce transforms into a velvety, rich delight. Simmer the mixture on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together perfectly. The cream will lend a lovely, creamy texture that coats each bite of the paneer cheese and plump peas.
Take your time, letting the dish gently bubble away, infusing your kitchen with the aroma of authentic Indian cuisine. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, your Matar Paneer is ready to serve.
Ladle it over fragrant basmati rice or scoop it up with warm naan bread. Each spoonful will be a celebration of flavors, with the cool cream balancing the warmth of the spices.
Savor every morsel as you enjoy this comforting and satisfying dish.
Step 4. Add Ginger and Garlic
To build upon the luxurious texture from the cream, you'll now add in the aromatic duo of ginger and garlic.
First, peel and mince the fresh ginger, making sure to get a generous 2 tablespoons worth. Then, take 5-6 cloves of garlic and give them a good smash with the flat of your knife before mincing them finely.
The ginger and garlic will infuse the paneer with their warm, pungent flavors, elevating the dish to new heights. Toss the minced ginger and garlic into the simmering sauce, stirring to combine.
Allow the flavors to meld for 2-3 minutes, letting the aroma fill your kitchen. This aromatic boost will complement the richness of the cream, creating a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Get ready, because the flavors are about to get even more incredible!
Step 5. Add Coriander Leaves
Next, grab a handful of fresh coriander leaves and roughly chop them. The vibrant green leaves will add a lovely pop of color and a delightfully fragrant, earthy flavor to your Matar Paneer.
Sprinkle the chopped coriander over the simmering paneer and peas, allowing the aromatic leaves to infuse the dish with their signature taste. The coriander will complement the other spices perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Be generous with the coriander – the more you add, the more pronounced that fresh, herbal note will be. Stir the coriander in gently, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the curry.
You'll know it's ready when the kitchen is filled with the captivating scent of coriander. This final touch will elevate your Matar Paneer, making it a truly vibrant and delicious dish.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, Matar Paneer is a beloved North Indian dish that's quite simple to prepare but packs a flavorful punch.
You'll love how the tender paneer and sweet peas come together in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce. The best part? It's easy to make at home, so you can enjoy this comforting meal anytime. Just remember to add the coriander leaves at the end for a fresh, herbal boost.
Now that you've mastered the steps, feel free to get creative. Try swapping in different veggies or experimenting with various spice blends.
Matar Paneer is quite versatile, so don't be afraid to put your own spin on it. Whether you serve it with warm naan, fluffy basmati rice, or a cooling raita, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Matar Paneer a Vegetarian Dish?
Absolutely! Matar paneer is a delightful vegetarian dish that's perfect for everyone to enjoy.
As a vegetarian, you can indulge in this delicious meal without any worries. It's made with paneer, a type of fresh Indian cheese, and peas, creating a tasty combination of flavors and textures.
Whether you're a vegetarian or not, you'll love the creamy, savory goodness of matar paneer. Give it a try – you won't be disappointed!
How Long Does Matar Paneer Take to Cook?
Cooking matar paneer doesn't take too long – you can have it ready in about 30 minutes!
First, you'll need to prep the ingredients, which should take around 10 minutes.
Then, the actual cooking process only takes about 20 minutes.
It's a quick and easy dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal.
Just follow the recipe closely, and you'll have a delicious matar paneer on the table in no time.
Enjoy your tasty Indian dish!
Can I Use Canned Tomatoes for Matar Paneer?
Absolutely! You can definitely use canned tomatoes for your matar paneer dish.
Canned tomatoes are a great time-saver and can add a lovely flavor to your curry.
Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste – you may need a bit more salt or spices to balance out the canned tomato flavor.
Give it a try and see how it turns out. I'm sure it'll be delicious!
Is Matar Paneer Gluten-Free?
Yes, matar paneer is typically gluten-free! That's great news if you're following a gluten-free diet.
The main ingredients in this classic Indian dish – peas, paneer cheese, and spices – don't contain any gluten.
Just be sure to check the labels on any additional ingredients, like sauces or seasonings, to confirm they're also gluten-free.
With a few simple swaps, you can easily enjoy a delicious, gluten-free matar paneer meal.
Bon appétit!
How Can I Make Matar Paneer Spicier?
To make your matar paneer spicier, you can add a few extra spices or chili peppers!
Try stirring in some crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a diced jalapeño. You can also use more of the spices already in the dish, like cumin, coriander, or garam masala.
Start with a small amount of the extra spice, then taste and add more until it's as spicy as you like.
Have fun experimenting to find your perfect level of heat!
Priya is the spice queen of Cook if Ya, specializing in vibrant Indian street food and traditional meals. Her recipes are full of bold flavors and colorful spices, bringing the excitement of Indian markets to your home kitchen. She loves to show how simple, everyday meals can be elevated with the right blend of spices.
