Matar Paneer: A Quick And Flavorful Delight

Matar Paneer is a classic North Indian dish that combines succulent peas (matar) with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a rich and creamy tomato-based gravy. This vegetarian delicacy is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a popular choice among paneer lovers. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing Matar Paneer with a quick preparation time and provide serving information for a delightful meal.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Serving: 4 persons

Ingredients

200 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed
1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, pureed
1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 cup fresh cream (optional)
Salt to taste
Fresh coriander leaves, for garnishing

Method

- Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

- Add finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.

- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.

- Add tomato puree to the pan and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.

- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes.

- Add green peas to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are tender.

- Add cubed paneer to the pan and gently mix it with the gravy. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Sprinkle garam masala over the Matar Paneer and stir gently to combine.

- If desired, add fresh cream to the dish and mix well. Cook for an additional minute.

- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

- Serve hot Matar Paneer with naan, roti, or steamed rice.