Mattar Paneer, an emblematic dish in Indian cuisine, brings together the delicate flavors of cottage cheese (paneer) and green peas (mattar) in a rich, spicy gravy. This beloved recipe has the potential to turn an ordinary meal into a gourmet experience. Here are 5 straightforward steps to crafting your own delicious Mattar Paneer at home.
Ingredients for Mattar Paneer
Before we dive into the steps, gather your ingredients:
- 250 grams of paneer, cubed
- 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1⁄2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1⁄4 cup cashew paste
- 1⁄2 cup cream or yogurt (optional for a richer taste)
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by prepping your paneer and vegetables. Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes. If using fresh peas, shell them; if frozen, thaw them. Puree the tomatoes to make a smooth mixture, chop your onions, and make a ginger-garlic paste.
👨🍳 Note: If you are using store-bought paneer, soak it in warm water for 10-15 minutes to soften and improve its texture.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle. Then, toss in the finely chopped onions and cook until they become translucent. Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell disappears, followed by the green chilies. Remember, this base will set the stage for your curry’s flavor.
Step 3: Add the Spices and Tomatoes
Now, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir for a minute before adding the tomato puree. Cook this mix until the oil starts to separate, which signifies that the spices have melded well with the tomatoes, creating a deep, rich base.
🍅 Note: Cooking the tomato puree until the oil separates helps reduce the dish’s acidity and enhances flavor.
Step 4: Cook Peas and Incorporate Paneer
Stir in the cashew paste for a creamy texture, followed by the peas. Let it cook for a few minutes to soften the peas, then gently add the paneer cubes. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, ensuring that the paneer absorbs the flavors without crumbling.
If you’re using cream or yogurt, now is the time to add it for that silky finish. Finish off with a sprinkle of garam masala.
Step 5: Serve Your Masterpiece
Once the flavors have melded to your satisfaction, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves to add a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot with fresh naan, roti, or steamed rice to soak up the rich, spicy gravy.
Preparing Mattar Paneer at home provides not only an authentic taste but also the joy of cooking this exquisite Indian dish. Each step is crucial in building layers of flavor, from the initial sauté of onions to the final garnish of cilantro. Enjoy the process of merging basic ingredients into a dish that’s both hearty and heartwarming.
Can I use store-bought paneer for Mattar Paneer?
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Absolutely, you can use store-bought paneer. However, for better texture and taste, soak the paneer in warm water for 10-15 minutes before cooking.
Is there a vegan option for Mattar Paneer?
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Yes, replace paneer with firm tofu, and use coconut milk or a plant-based cream instead of dairy cream. Also, ensure all your spices and other ingredients are vegan-friendly.
What can I serve with Mattar Paneer?
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Mattar Paneer goes wonderfully with:
- Naan or Roti for a classic Indian bread pairing
- Steamed Basmati Rice for a lighter option
- Jeera Rice for an aromatic touch
Related Terms:
- matar paneer recipe
- Matar Paneer recipe Dhaba Style
- Matar paneer recipe Punjabi style
- Easy matar paneer recipe
- Matar Paneer recipe Restaurant style
- Matar paneer recipe Hebbar s Kitchen
