Cook matar paneer at home with this simple recipe
Matar paneer is a classic North Indian dish that's as comforting as it is delightful. This vegetarian marvel combines soft paneer with sweet garden peas, all swathed in a rich tomato-based gravy. It's a staple in Punjabi households and has won hearts across the subcontinent for its simplicity and heartwarming flavors. Check out this recipe for a flavorsome day.
Step 1: Gather the following ingredients
You will need 200 gm of cubed paneer, one cup of fresh or frozen peas, two large pureed tomatoes, one medium onion finely chopped, two green chilies slit, one inch of ginger, four cloves of garlic minced, one teaspoon of cumin seeds, two teaspoons of coriander powder, one teaspoon of garam masala, ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder, salt to taste, water, and cilantro.
Step 2: Spice infusion begins
Heat oil in a pan over medium flame. Once done, add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Then stir in the chopped onions and saute until they turn golden brown. Now add ginger-garlic paste along with green chilies to the mix; saute until the raw aroma dissipates. This foundation will carry the intricate flavors that define matar paneer.
Step 3: Tomato Puree Transformation
The next step is to pour in the pureed tomatoes along with turmeric, coriander powder, and salt. Cook this masala on medium heat until oil starts separating from the sides. This serves as an indication that your base is perfectly cooked. The transformation of raw tomato puree into a rich gravy base is crucial for achieving that authentic taste.
Step 4: Add the paneer and veggies
Now it's time to add the cubed paneer and peas into the masala. Stir gently to coat them with the gravy without breaking the paneer pieces. Once you are done, pour in water for consistency and let it simmer for about 10 minutes or until the peas are tender. The gentle simmering allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Garnish and serve
Finish off by sprinkling garam masala over your creation; this final touch will add warmth and depth to your matar paneer. Garnish with chopped cilantro for a fresh herby note. Serve this comforting bowl of goodness with warm naan or fluffy basmati rice for an unforgettable meal that celebrates vegetarian Indian cuisine at its best.
