Matar Paneer

Matar Paneer Recipe - Vegetarian Dish from Punjab, India

Region / culture: India, Punjab | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Matar Paneer is a popular North Indian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and green peas cooked in a flavorful tomato-based gravy. This vegetarian dish is rich in protein and is a favorite among many Indian households.

History

Matar Paneer has been a staple in North Indian cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the state of Punjab, where paneer and green peas are commonly used in cooking. The dish has since spread to other parts of India and has become a popular choice in Indian restaurants worldwide.

Ingredients

Paneer or Tofu with Green Peas

8 oz (227 g) of paneer or extra firm tofu
12 oz (340 g) or 1.5 cup of fresh or frozen green peas or Matar
0.5 cup of beaten yogurt
0.5 cup of chopped tomatoes
0.5 cup of onions
2 – 3 finely chopped green chilis (adjust quantity according to preference)
2 tsp of chopped cilantro or coriander
2 – 3 tbsp of ghee or vegetable oil
1 tsp of ginger paste
1 tsp of garlic paste
1 tsp of turmeric powder
1 tsp of garam masala powder
A pinch of asafoetida (optional)
salt to taste
3 tsp of chopped cilantro or coriander leaves

How to prepare

Take the paneer cube and slice it into 1-inch cubes.
Heat ghee in a pan. Fry the paneer or tofu in the ghee until it turns a golden light color.
In a separate pan, heat ghee again.
Add the onions and fry them until they turn a light golden brown.
Add all the spices and salt. Stir for a few seconds.
Add the tomatoes and stir again for a few minutes.
Add the yogurt and simmer for 8-10 minutes.
Add the peas.
A few minutes before serving, add the fried paneer or tofu. Stir gently.
Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with naan or tandoori roti.

Variations

Add cashew paste for a creamier gravy.
Include bell peppers or potatoes for added texture and flavor.
Use coconut milk instead of yogurt for a dairy-free version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To enhance the flavor of the dish, lightly fry the paneer or tofu before adding it to the gravy.

- Adjust the quantity of green chilis according to your spice preference.

- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of cream or coconut milk to the gravy.

- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Matar Paneer can be served with naan, roti, or steamed rice. It pairs well with a side of raita (yogurt dip) and pickles.

Cooking Techniques

Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning.

- Simmer the gravy on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Stir gently to avoid breaking the paneer or tofu cubes.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use tofu instead of paneer for a vegan option.

- Substitute green peas with mixed vegetables for a variation.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the gravy in advance and add the paneer or tofu just before serving.

- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with a sprinkle of garam masala and a drizzle of cream for an elegant presentation. - Serve in a traditional copper or brass serving dish for an authentic touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Matar Paneer with a side of jeera rice or pulao for a complete meal.

- Serve with a refreshing cucumber salad or kachumber on the side.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

- Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 18g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 12g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 15% of daily value per serving

Iron: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains dairy (paneer) and soy (tofu)

Summary

Matar Paneer is a nutritious dish rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great vegetarian option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Summary

Matar Paneer is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare at home. With the right ingredients and cooking techniques, you can enjoy this flavorful North Indian dish in the comfort of your own kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a simple dish called Matar Paneer, and the vibrant colors of the peas and paneer (Indian cottage cheese) mixed in a rich tomato gravy captivated me. I knew I had to learn how to make it.

I first came across the recipe for Matar Paneer when I was visiting a small village in India. I had always been fascinated by the flavors and spices of Indian cuisine, and I was eager to learn more. As I wandered through the bustling market, I stumbled upon a small food stall where a kind elderly woman was cooking up a storm.

I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped vegetables, ground spices, and stirred pots of bubbling curries. When she started making Matar Paneer, I knew I had to learn her secrets. I approached her timidly and asked if she would be willing to teach me how to make the dish. To my delight, she agreed.

We spent the next few hours in her tiny kitchen, as she patiently guided me through each step of the recipe. She showed me how to sauté onions and garlic until they were soft and golden, how to add a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala to create a fragrant base for the dish.

As the tomatoes cooked down into a thick gravy, she added the peas and cubes of paneer, allowing them to absorb all the delicious flavors. Finally, she garnished the dish with fresh cilantro and served it piping hot with fluffy naan bread.

I took my first bite of the Matar Paneer and was instantly transported to a world of bold spices and comforting warmth. The flavors danced on my tongue, and I knew that this dish would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I perfected the recipe for Matar Paneer, adding my own little twists and tweaks to make it truly my own. I experimented with different proportions of spices, tried different cooking techniques, and even added a splash of cream for extra richness.

I shared the dish with my family and friends, who all fell in love with the creamy texture of the paneer and the burst of sweetness from the peas. They couldn't get enough of it, and soon, Matar Paneer became a regular feature on our dinner table.

As I continued to delve deeper into the world of Indian cuisine, I learned more and more about the intricate flavors and techniques that make it so special. I traveled to different regions, seeking out local cooks and grandmothers who were willing to share their recipes and stories with me.

Each new recipe I learned was like a treasure trove of culinary secrets, passed down through generations and infused with love and tradition. I marveled at the diversity of ingredients and flavors, from the delicate saffron-laced biryanis of Hyderabad to the fiery curries of Goa.

But no matter where my culinary journey took me, Matar Paneer remained a constant favorite. It was a dish that reminded me of that kind elderly woman in the village, who had opened up her kitchen and her heart to me. It was a dish that brought together the flavors of my past and the memories of my travels.

And so, whenever I make Matar Paneer now, I can't help but smile as I remember that first taste of the dish, and the journey it set me on. Cooking has always been my passion, and through these recipes, I have found a way to connect with the world around me and share a piece of my heart with others.

So if you ever find yourself in my kitchen, don't be surprised if you see a steaming pot of Matar Paneer simmering on the stove. It's a dish that holds a special place in my heart, and I would love nothing more than to share it with you. Just like that kind elderly woman did for me all those years ago.