Mattar Paneer: A Flavorful Indian Delight with Peas and Paneer

Introduction:

Mattar Paneer is a popular North Indian dish that combines the goodness of soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with vibrant green peas in a rich and aromatic tomato-based gravy. This vegetarian delight is a favorite among Indian households and is often enjoyed with roti (Indian bread) or rice. The combination of tender green peas and creamy paneer in a luscious gravy makes Mattar Paneer a satisfying and flavorful dish. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of creating this delightful recipe in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 200 grams paneer, cubed
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, pureed
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), crushed
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sautéing the paneer:

   • Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add the paneer cubes and sauté them until they turn golden brown on all sides.
   • Remove the paneer from the pan and set it aside.

2. Preparing the gravy:

   • In the same pan, add the remaining ghee or oil.
   • Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
   • Add the ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
   • Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
   • Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.

3. Cooking the peas and paneer:

   • Add the green peas to the masala and mix well.
   • Add a splash of water, cover the pan, and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the peas are tender.
   • Gently add the sautéed paneer cubes to the pan and mix them with the gravy.
   • Add garam masala and crushed dried fenugreek leaves. Stir well to combine.
   • Cover the pan and simmer the dish for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Garnishing and serving:

   • Garnish the Mattar Paneer with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
   • Serve it hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice.

Tips:

• For a creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of fresh cream or cashew paste to the gravy.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less red chili powder according to your taste preference.
• If using frozen peas, rinse them with warm water before adding them to the dish.

Conclusion:

Mattar Paneer is a delightful Indian dish that brings together the goodness of paneer and green peas in a rich and flavorful gravy. By following the step-by-step instructions provided in this article, you can easily prepare this aromatic and satisfying recipe in your own kitchen. The combination of tender paneer, vibrant green peas, and the blend of spices makes Mattar Paneer a truly comforting and delicious dish. So, gather the ingredients, sauté the paneer, prepare the masala, and enjoy the flavorsome journey of Mattar Paneer. Serve it to your family and friends and witness the joy it brings to their taste buds.