Matar Paneer
Matar Paneer is a delicious North Indian dish made with paneer cubes and green peas (matar) cooked in a flavorful tomato-based gravy.
Ingredients
For the Paneer:
- 200 grams paneer cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup green peas fresh or frozen
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 1- inch cinnamon stick
- 2-3 green cardamom pods
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
- 3 large tomatoes pureed
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 cup fresh cream or 2 tablespoons yogurt optional
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Gravy:
- Heat oil or ghee in a medium-sized pan or skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cardamom pods. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Add finely chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Mix well and cook for a minute.
Prepare the Paneer and Peas:
- Add the green peas to the gravy and cook for 3-4 minutes until they are tender.
- Add the paneer cubes and gently stir to coat them with the gravy.
- Add salt and garam masala. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- If using, add fresh cream or yogurt and mix well. Cook for another minute.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
- Enjoy your Matar Paneer!
