Matar Paneer is a classic North Indian dish that combines tender green peas (matar) and cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a flavorful and creamy tomato-based gravy. It is a popular vegetarian option and is loved by both kids and adults.
The dish starts by sautéing onions in oil or ghee until they turn golden brown. Then, ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies are added to enhance the flavors. Tomato puree is added and cooked until the masala is well cooked and the oil separates. This step ensures that the base of the curry is rich in flavor.
Next, a combination of spices including turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder are added to the tomato-onion base. These spices infuse the curry with a warm and aromatic flavor. Green peas are then added and cooked until they are partially cooked, adding a vibrant green color and a slight crunch to the dish.
Paneer cubes are gently added to the masala, taking care not to break them. Paneer is a soft and creamy cheese that adds a rich and creamy texture to the dish. It absorbs the flavors of the masala, making each bite of Matar Paneer delightful.
To further enhance the taste, garam masala powder and fresh cream are added. Garam masala is a blend of spices that adds depth and complexity to the curry. The cream gives the dish a luscious and velvety texture, balancing the spices.
Finally, the Matar Paneer is garnished with fresh coriander leaves, which add a fresh and herby note to the dish. It is usually served hot with Indian breads like roti or naan, or with steamed rice.
The combination of the sweet green peas, creamy paneer, and the rich and aromatic tomato-based gravy makes Matar Paneer a comforting and satisfying dish that is enjoyed by many.
Here's a recipe for making Matar Paneer, a popular North Indian dish:
Ingredients:
* 1 cup green peas (matar)
* 200 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
* 2 medium-sized tomatoes, pureed
* 1 large onion, finely chopped
* 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
* 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
* 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
* 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
* 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
* 1 teaspoon coriander powder
* 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
* 1/4 cup fresh cream
* 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
* Salt to taste
* Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
Instructions:
* Heat oil or ghee in a pan or kadai over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
* Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
* Add the ginger-garlic paste and slit green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
* Add the tomato puree and cook for 2-3 minutes until the oil separates from the masala.
* Reduce the heat to low and add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a minute.
* Add the green peas (matar) and cook for 4-5 minutes until they are partially cooked.
* Add the paneer cubes and gently mix them with the masala, taking care not to break the paneer. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
* Add garam masala powder and fresh cream. Mix well and simmer for 2 minutes.
* Taste and adjust the salt and spices according to your preference.
* Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and turn off the heat.
* Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice.
Enjoy your homemade Matar Paneer!
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