Easy Mutter Paneer Recipe for Food Lovers
Are you looking for a delightful Indian dish that's both flavorful and easy to prepare? Mutter Paneer, a vegetarian delight, is just the recipe you need. Combining soft cubes of paneer cheese with sweet green peas in a rich, spiced tomato gravy, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Let's dive into this easy Mutter Paneer recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 250 grams Paneer (cut into cubes)
- 1 cup Green Peas (fresh or frozen)
- 3 Medium Tomatoes, pureed
- 1 Large Onion, finely chopped
- 2 Green Chilies, slit
- 1 tsp Ginger Garlic Paste
- 2 tbsp Cooking Oil or Ghee
- 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
- 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1 tsp Coriander Powder
- 1⁄2 tsp Red Chili Powder (adjust to taste)
- 1⁄2 tsp Garam Masala
- 1⁄4 tsp Kasuri Methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh Coriander Leaves for garnish
Preparation Steps
- Prepare the Paneer: Cut the paneer into 1-inch cubes. Optionally, you can lightly fry them for a crispy exterior, but for an easier approach, simply use them as they are.
- Make the Tomato Puree: Blend the tomatoes until smooth.
Cooking Method
- Heat Oil: In a pan or kadai, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee.
- Add Spices and Aromatics:
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent.
- Tomato Puree: Pour in the tomato puree. Cook on medium heat until the oil starts to separate from the puree, signaling that the masala is cooked.
- Spices:
- Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well.
- Adjust flavors as needed by adding more spices.
- Peas: Stir in the green peas. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the peas are tender.
- Paneer: Add the paneer cubes and gently mix them into the gravy to coat well without breaking them.
- Simmer:
- Add garam masala and crushed kasuri methi.
- Simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add a little water if the gravy seems too thick.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
🍅 Note: To achieve a creamier consistency, you can add a spoonful of heavy cream or cashew paste towards the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Mutter Paneer is a versatile dish that pairs well with:
- Indian Breads: Serve with roti, naan, or paratha to soak up the delicious gravy.
- Rice: Plain Basmati rice or Jeera Rice (cumin rice) complements the flavors beautifully.
- Sides: Accompany with a side of cucumber raita, papad, or pickles for a complete meal.
Remember, this dish can be as spicy or as mild as you prefer. Adjust the chili powder or the green chilies to suit your taste buds. Mutter Paneer isn't just about the taste; it's also about the heartwarming satisfaction that comes with sharing and enjoying a homemade meal.
Variations and Tips
- Vegan Option: Use tofu instead of paneer for a vegan version. Tofu soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- Healthier Twist: Use less oil or make a simple vegetable gravy without the paneer.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can make the gravy in advance and freeze it for up to a month. Just add the paneer and peas when reheating.
The beauty of Indian cuisine lies in its adaptability to personal taste and dietary restrictions, making Mutter Paneer a perfect dish for home cooks to experiment with and enjoy.
Can I make Mutter Paneer in advance?
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Yes, you can prepare the gravy ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month. Just add the paneer and peas when you reheat and serve.
How can I make this dish more creamy?
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Add a bit of cream or cashew paste towards the end of cooking to make the gravy richer and creamier.
What can I use instead of paneer for a vegan version?
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Tofu works as a great substitute for paneer in Mutter Paneer, giving you a vegan-friendly alternative.
