Matar Paneer is a popular North Indian dish made with peas (matar) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a flavorful tomato-based gravy. It’s a delicious and nutritious vegetarian dish that pairs perfectly with naan, roti, or rice. Here’s an easy and delicious Matar Paneer recipe for making tasty Matar Paneer Sabji at home.
Matar Paneer Recipe
Ingredients List For Making Matar Paneer Ki Sabji
- Paneer: 250 grams, cubed
- Green Peas (Matar): 1 cup (fresh or frozen)
- Onions: 2 medium, finely chopped
- Tomatoes: 3 large, pureed
- Ginger-Garlic Paste: 1 tablespoon
- Green Chilies: 2, finely chopped
- Oil or Ghee: 3 tablespoons
- Cumin Seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Red Chili Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Coriander Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Garam Masala: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: To taste
- Fresh Cream: 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Fresh Coriander Leaves: Chopped, for garnish
Method For Prepare Matar Paneer Recipe
- Preparation:
- If using fresh peas, boil them until tender. If using frozen peas, thaw and rinse them.
- Cut the paneer into cubes and optionally, lightly fry them in a bit of oil until golden. This step adds extra flavor and texture but can be skipped for a lighter dish.
- Making the Gravy:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until aromatic.
- Finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Then add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and sauté for another
- 2-3 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
- Spicing the Gravy:
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and
- cook for a few minutes until the spices are well incorporated.
- If the gravy becomes too thick, add a little water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Cooking the Paneer and Peas:
- Add the boiled or thawed peas to the gravy and mix well.
- Add the paneer cubes and gently stir to coat them with the gravy.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the paneer and peas to absorb the flavors.
- Finishing Touches:
- Add garam masala and mix well.
- If you prefer a richer dish, add fresh cream and stir gently.
- Simmer for another 2 minutes to blend all the flavors.
- Garnishing and Serving:
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Tips for the Best Matar Paneer
- Paneer: For a softer paneer, soak the fried cubes in warm water for a few minutes before adding them to the gravy.
- Tomatoes: Freshly pureed tomatoes give a better flavor, but canned tomato puree can be used in a pinch.
- Spices: Adjust the spice levels according to your preference. You can also add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for an extra layer of flavor.
- Cream: Adding cream gives a rich, restaurant-style texture, but can be omitted for a lighter version.
Matar Paneer is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy this classic Indian curry with your favorite bread or rice, and savor the delicious blend of paneer and peas in a spicy, creamy gravy!