Matar Paneer recipe

Here’s a simple recipe for Matar Paneer, a popular Indian dish:

Ingredients for Matar Paneer recipe:

• 1 cup paneer (cottage cheese), cubed
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup cashews, soaked in water for 15 minutes
• 2-3 green chilies, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 cup fresh cream
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing

Instructions:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and the oil starts to separate.
5. Drain the soaked cashews and blend them into a smooth paste using a little water.
6. Add the cashew paste to the tomato-onion mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes.
7. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
8. Add fresh cream and garam masala. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.
9. Add cubed paneer and green peas. Mix gently to coat them with the masala.
10. Add water if needed to achieve your desired consistency. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the paneer and peas are cooked through.
11. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Your delicious Matar Paneer is ready to be served! Enjoy it with naan, roti, or rice.

FAQs

Can I use frozen peas for Matar Paneer?

Yes, you can use frozen peas as a convenient alternative to fresh ones. Simply add them to the dish during the cooking process, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

Is there a substitute for paneer in Matar Paneer?

If you don’t have paneer, you can use firm tofu as a vegetarian alternative. Alternatively, for a non-vegetarian version, you can replace paneer with cooked and cubed chicken.

Can I make Matar Paneer in advance?

Yes, Matar Paneer can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving, and you may need to add a bit of water or cream to adjust the consistency.

How can I adjust the spice level of Matar Paneer?

To control the spice level, you can adjust the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder according to your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of these ingredients, and conversely, increase them for a spicier flavor.