Matar Paneer Recipe

Matar Paneer Recipe :

Matar Paneer is a popular North Indian dish that combines two fantastic ingredients: paneer (a type of Indian cheese) and peas. The name itself tells you what’s in it: ‘Matar’ means ‘peas,’ and ‘Paneer’ is ‘Indian cheese.

Where It Came From

This dish originally comes from the Punjab region in North India, but it’s become a favorite all over the country. Every family and every restaurant might make it a little differently, which makes it exciting to try in various places.

What’s So Great About It

Matar Paneer is all about the perfect combo of soft paneer and sweet peas in a delicious sauce. It’s creamy, a little spicy, and full of flavor. You can eat it with different types of Indian bread like naan, roti, or even flavored rice dishes.

Making Matar Paneer

When you make Matar Paneer at home, you can adjust the flavors to your liking. The basic recipe involves a tomato and onion sauce with cream and spices. The paneer and peas are the stars of the show, creating a wonderful mix of textures and tastes.

Serving Ideas:

Matar Paneer goes great with different types of Indian bread or rice dishes. It’s a dish loved by vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike because of its creamy and savory taste.

Matar Paneer is not just a dish; it’s a flavorful journey through the world of Indian cuisine. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try new twists, every bite is a taste of India’s rich food culture. So, grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this delicious adventure with Matar Paneer. Your taste buds will thank you! Follow this step-by-step guide to create a restaurant-style Matar Paneer at home, and impress your family and friends.

Matar Paneer Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons Butter
• 2 tablespoons Oil
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 2-3 Cloves
• 1 small Cinnamon stick
• 1 Bay leaf
• 2-3 Green cardamom pods
• 1 Black cardamom pod
• 1-2 Green chillies (slit)
• 2 Onions (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon Ginger garlic paste
• 2 Chopped Tomatoes
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Red chilli powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Garam masala
• 1 teaspoon Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1 tablespoon Honey
• 2-3 tablespoons Cream
• 1 cup Peas (fresh or frozen)
• 200g Paneer (cubed)
• Fresh Coriander leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Gravy:
   • Heat butter and oil in a pan.
   • Add cumin seeds, cloves, cinnamon, bay leaf, green cardamom, and black cardamom. Sauté until aromatic.
   • Add green chillies and finely chopped onions. Cook until the onions turn golden brown.
   • Stir in ginger garlic paste and cook for a few more minutes.
   • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften.
   • Season with salt, turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chilli powder, cumin powder, and garam masala. Mix well.
2. Create the Base:
   • Cook the masala until it releases oil and has a rich aroma.
3. Enhance the Flavors:
   • Crush Kasuri methi between your palms and add it to the gravy.
   • Drizzle honey for a touch of sweetness.
   • Pour in the cream for a creamy texture.
4. Introduce the Peas and Paneer:Add fresh or frozen peas and cubed paneer to the gravy. Let them simmer in the sauce.
6. Simmer and Serve:
   • Let everything simmer together for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
   • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
7. Serve Hot:
   • Your Matar Paneer is ready to be served. Enjoy it with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

This Matar Paneer recipe captures the essence of restaurant-style North Indian cuisine, with its creamy texture and aromatic spices. Whether it’s a special occasion or a delightful weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit with your loved ones. Bon appétit!

Here are some important notes to keep in mind while preparing Matar Paneer:

1. Paneer Preparation: Ensure that your paneer is fresh and soft. You can either buy it or make it at home. If using store-bought paneer, soak it in warm water for 15-20 minutes to make it softer before adding it to the gravy.
2. Spice Level: Adjust the quantity of green chillies, red chilli powder, and garam masala to suit your spice preferences. Matar Paneer can be mild or spicy, depending on your taste.
3. Creaminess: The cream plays a crucial role in making the gravy creamy and rich. You can adjust the quantity of cream to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Tomatoes: Use ripe and flavorful tomatoes for the best results. If they are not tangy enough, you can add a bit of tomato puree or a dash of lemon juice to enhance the tanginess.
5. Honey: Honey adds a subtle sweetness to balance the flavors. Adjust the amount of honey according to your taste. You can also use sugar as an alternative.
6. Kasuri Methi: Crush the dried fenugreek leaves (Kasuri Methi) between your palms before adding them to the gravy. This releases their aroma and flavor.
7. Peas: If using frozen peas, you can add them directly to the gravy. If using fresh peas, blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding them.
8. Garnish: Fresh coriander leaves make an excellent garnish. It not only adds color but also freshness to the dish.
9. Resting Time: After cooking, let the Matar Paneer rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the taste.
10. Accompaniments: Matar Paneer pairs well with naan, roti, paratha, or steamed rice. Serve it hot for the best dining experience.

Remember that cooking is not just about following a recipe; it’s also about adjusting it to your taste preferences. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious flavors of homemade Matar Paneer!

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