Matar Paneer, a classic North Indian vegetarian dish

Matar Paneer Recipe (Serves 4)

🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes

🍳 Cook Time: 25 minutes

🍽️ Total Time: 40 minutes

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📋 Ingredients

For the Paneer and Peas:

• Paneer – 200g, cut into cubes

• Green peas (fresh or frozen) – 1 cup

• Oil or ghee – 2 tbsp (for frying paneer)

For the Masala Base:

• Onion – 2 medium, finely chopped

• Tomato – 3 medium, pureed or finely chopped

• Garlic – 4 cloves

• Ginger – 1-inch piece

• Green chili – 1 (optional, adjust to taste)

For the Gravy:

• Cumin seeds – 1 tsp

• Turmeric powder – ½ tsp

• Red chili powder – 1 tsp (adjust to taste)

• Coriander powder – 1.5 tsp

• Garam masala – 1 tsp

• Kasuri methi (dry fenugreek leaves) – 1 tsp (optional)

• Salt – to taste

• Water – 1 to 1.5 cups (adjust for desired gravy thickness)

• Oil – 2 tbsp

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh coriander leaves – a handful, chopped

• Cream – 1 tbsp (for richness)

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🍲 Instructions

1. Preparation:

• Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes.

• If using frozen peas, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes and drain.

• Make a paste of garlic, ginger, and green chili (or finely mince them).

2. Fry Paneer (Optional but recommended):

• Heat 2 tbsp oil or ghee in a pan.

• Lightly fry the paneer cubes until golden on all sides. Remove and soak in warm water to keep them soft.

3. Make the Base Masala:

• Heat 2 tbsp oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

• Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

• Add the ginger-garlic-chili paste. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the raw smell goes.

• Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts separating (5–7 minutes).

4. Add Spices:

• Add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt.

• Cook the masala on medium heat for 2-3 minutes.

5. Add Peas & Simmer:

• Add the peas and about 1 to 1.5 cups of water.

• Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes (until peas are tender).

6. Add Paneer & Finish Gravy:

• Add the paneer cubes (drained from water).

• Simmer for 3–5 minutes. Adjust salt and spice level.

• Add garam masala and crushed kasuri methi. Stir gently.

7. Optional Creamy Finish:

• Add a tablespoon of cream for a richer texture and stir gently.

8. Garnish and Serve:

• Turn off heat. Garnish with chopped fresh coriander.

• Let it rest for a few minutes for flavors to deepen.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions:

• Serve hot with roti, naan, paratha, or jeera rice.

• For a complete meal, pair it with raita and a simple salad.