In the world of Indian cuisine, Mattar Paneer stands out as a beloved dish known for its delightful combination of creamy paneer cheese and sweet green peas, all bathed in a rich, aromatic tomato-based sauce. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or an experienced chef looking for a quick yet authentic recipe, here are five easy steps to create the perfect Mattar Paneer at home.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather the ingredients necessary for this delightful dish:
- 250 grams Paneer (cottage cheese), cubed
- 1 cup Green Peas (frozen or fresh)
- 3-4 large Tomatoes, pureed
- 1 Onion, finely chopped
- 2 Green Chilies, slit
- 1 tablespoon Ginger Garlic Paste
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
- 1⁄2 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 1 teaspoon Red Chili Powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Coriander Powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1 teaspoon Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- 3 tablespoons Cream or Cashew Paste (for richness)
- 2 tablespoons Oil or Ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh Coriander leaves for garnish
🔍 Note: Adjust the spice level according to your palate by increasing or decreasing the amount of red chili powder and green chilies.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
The first step to culinary perfection in any dish is preparation. Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes, keeping them uniform for even cooking. Puree the tomatoes, finely chop the onions, and prepare the ginger-garlic paste if using fresh. Thaw your peas if they are frozen. Having everything ready beforehand streamlines the cooking process.
Step 2: Make the Base Sauce
Start with heating the oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, allowing them to pop to release their aromatic oils. Then, toss in the chopped onions, sauté until they turn translucent. Introduce the ginger-garlic paste, sautéing until the raw smell disappears. Follow with the tomato puree, cooking until the oil separates from the mixture. This is when you add your spices: turmeric, red chili, and coriander powders. Stir well to mix and cook for a minute or two to ensure the spices are well integrated into the sauce.
Step 3: Add Peas and Paneer
Now, incorporate the peas into your base sauce. If you’re using fresh peas, cook until they become tender; with frozen, they just need to warm through. After, gently add the paneer cubes, ensuring they are well coated by the sauce. Allow them to simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavors, but be careful not to overcook them as they can become tough.
🔍 Note: For a richer taste, you can lightly fry the paneer cubes before adding them to the sauce. This gives them a nice texture and seals in the flavor.
Step 4: Finish with Flavors
At this stage, enhance the dish with the garam masala and kasuri methi (crushed between your fingers to release their fragrance). If you prefer a creamy consistency, add cream or cashew paste to the gravy. Stir well and let it simmer for a couple more minutes. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for color and freshness.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Your Mattar Paneer is now ready to be served! It pairs wonderfully with naan, paratha, or rice. Its gentle spices and the creamy texture make it a perfect dish for a family dinner or when you’re entertaining guests. The blend of spices and the softness of paneer with the sweetness of peas create a harmonious meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
Key Insights:
Following these steps will ensure you make an authentic, flavorful Mattar Paneer at home:
- Ensure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavors.
- The sauce’s base is crucial; a well-cooked tomato-onion mixture sets the stage for a good curry.
- Add ingredients in layers to build flavor complexity.
- Be gentle with the paneer; overcooking can ruin its delicate texture.
- Balance the creaminess with the spice level for a harmonious taste.
In mastering this dish, you not only learn how to prepare Mattar Paneer but also get a taste of Indian culinary techniques. Each bite of this dish encapsulates the love for food, the tradition of spice blending, and the joy of sharing a meal. Enjoy this wholesome experience of cooking Mattar Paneer at home, where each step takes you closer to the heart of Indian cuisine.
Can I use store-bought paneer?
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Yes, you can use store-bought paneer, but making it at home can give you a fresher and softer texture. If using store-bought, soak it in warm water for a few minutes to make it softer.
What can I substitute for cream?
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If you want to avoid cream, you can use cashew paste or even a blend of yogurt and milk to give that creamy texture to your Mattar Paneer.
How can I make it vegan?
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Replace paneer with tofu or make a paneer substitute from soy milk. Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy cream, and ensure all spices are vegan-friendly.
Related Terms:
- matar paneer recipe
- Mattar paneer
- Paneer
- Palak paneer
- Kadhai paneer
- shahi paneer
