Matar Paneer Curry | Mutter Paneer Sabji | Peas Paneer

About Matar Paneer

Mattar paneer is a well-loved dish originating from North India. It consists of green peas (mattar) and paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese. This vegetarian delicacy is known for its creamy tomato-based gravy. Mattar paneer is a versatile dish, allowing for personal preferences in spice levels and ingredients. It is a delightful and popular choice for vegetarians, serving as a delicious main course or a side dish.

Prep time: 10-15 minutes

Cooking time: 25-30 minutes

Serves: 4-5 people

How to Make Matar Paneer Curry Ingredients:

For Tomato puree

• Tomatoes 5-6 medium size
• Green chilli 1 no.
• Ginger 1 inch

For Frying paneer

• Ghee 1 tbsp + oil 1 tsp
• Ginger 1 inch (julienned)
• Green chillies 1-2 nos. (slit)
• Paneer 500 gm (cubes)

For gravy

• Ghee 2 tbsp + oil 1 tbsp
• Jeera 2 tsp
• Green chillies 2-3 nos. (chopped)
• Fresh coriander stems 1 tbsp (chopped)
• Ginger garlic paste 2 tbsp
• Onions 3-4 medium size (chopped)

Powdered spices:

• Spicy red chilli powder 1 tsp
• Kashmiri red chilli powder 1 tbsp
• Coriander powder 1 tbsp
• Turmeric powder 1/4th tsp
• Garam masala 1 tsp
• Besan 1 tbsp
• Salt a pinch
• Cashew paste 2 tbsp
• Green peas 2 cups
• Hot water as required
• Garam masala a large pinch
• Kasuri methi 1 tsp
• Ginger 1 inch (julienned)
• Fresh coriander a handful (Chopped)

How to Make Matar Paneer (Step by step guide)

For tomato purée, take fresh tomatoes, cut them in quarters and transfer in a grinding jar, along with the tomatoes add green chilli and ginger, grind to a fine purée.

• For frying paneer, set a pan on medium heat, add ghee + oil, ginger, green chillies and paneer, shallow fry the paneer from both the sides until golden brown in colour.
• For the gravy, set a wok on medium heat, add ghee + oil, jeera, green chillies, fresh coriander stems and ginger garlic paste, sauté on medium high flame for 2-3 minutes.
• Now, add onions and cook until golden brown in colour.
• Further, lower the flame and add the powdered spices, besan and salt a pinch, mix well and add a dash of hot water to avoid the masalas from burning, cook until the ghee is separated.
• Now, add the freshly prepared tomato puree, cashew paste and salt to taste, mix and cook well on medium high flame until the ghee is separated.
• Add hot water as required, add green peas and cook for 3-4 minutes on medium high flame.
• Add 500 ml of hot water or more, to adjust the consistency of the gravy, stir well and cover and cook for 20-25 minutes on medium flame, stir in intervals. The cooking time may differ depending on the quality of the green peas.
• After the gravy is almost cooked, add the shallow fried paneer, and cook for 1-2 minutes on medium flame.
• Now add the garam masala, kasuri methi and ginger juliennes, mix well and add freshly chopped coriander leaves, mix gently and cook for last 1-2 minutes, matar paneer is ready, serve hot with roti, paratha or any indian bread of your choice.

FAQ / People also ask

Q: What is matar paneer flavor or how it taste?

A: Mattar paneer has a rich and flavorful taste. The combination of creamy tomato-based gravy, tender green peas, and soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) creates a satisfying and balanced flavor profile. Here are some characteristics of the taste:

• Creamy and tangy: The tomato-based gravy lends a creamy and slightly tangy taste to the dish. The tomatoes provide a slight acidity that complements the other flavors.
• Mildly spiced: Mattar paneer is typically mildly spiced to allow the flavors of the peas and paneer to shine. Common spices used include cumin, turmeric, coriander, and garam masala. The spiciness can be adjusted according to personal preference.
• Sweetness from green peas: The natural sweetness of the green peas adds a pleasant and delicate touch to the dish. They provide a slight burst of sweetness that balances the savory elements. Soft and creamy paneer: Paneer has a mild and creamy taste with a slightly tangy undertone. It absorbs the flavors of the gravy, making it a delectable addition to the dish

Overall, mattar paneer has a comforting and well-rounded taste, with a creamy, tangy, and mildly spiced flavor profile. It pairs well with various Indian breads like naan, roti, or paratha, as well as rice.

Q: What is matar paneer called in English?

A: In English, the dish “Matar Paneer” is commonly referred to as “Peas and Paneer.” This flavorful vegetarian delicacy combines green peas (matar) and Indian cottage cheese (paneer) in a rich tomato and onion-based gravy, making it a beloved option in Indian cuisine. So, if you encounter “Peas and Paneer” on an Indian restaurant menu, you can expect it to be the same as the traditional Matar Paneer

Q:What is the difference between matar paneer and paneer masala?

A: Matar Paneer and Paneer Masala are two popular Indian dishes, each with its distinct preparation and ingredients.

• Main Ingredients:
  • Matar Paneer: This dish features a delightful combination of green peas (matar) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a tomato and onion-based gravy, seasoned with aromatic spices.
  • Paneer Masala: In contrast, Paneer Masala centers solely on paneer (Indian cottage cheese). The cheese is cooked in a rich, spiced gravy that typically includes tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices.
• Inclusion of Green Peas:
  • Matar Paneer: The key characteristic of this dish is the addition of green peas, contributing a slightly sweet flavor and pleasing texture.
  • Paneer Masala: Paneer Masala, as the name suggests, does not incorporate green peas as a standard ingredient.
• Flavor and Texture:
  • Matar Paneer: This dish offers a harmonious blend of flavors from paneer, green peas, and the well-spiced tomato-onion gravy. The presence of peas adds a unique taste and distinct texture to the overall dish.
  • Paneer Masala: With its focus solely on paneer, the dish highlights the creamy and mildly chewy texture of the cottage cheese, complemented by the rich and flavorful gravy.
• Regional Variations:
  • Both Matar Paneer and Paneer Masala may have regional variations in their recipes, with different Indian regions incorporating diverse spices and cooking methods, resulting in subtle nuances in taste and appearance.

In conclusion, while both dishes feature the deliciousness of paneer, Matar Paneer stands out due to the inclusion of green peas, setting it apart from the exclusively paneer-focused Paneer Masala. Both dishes are cherished for their unique flavors and are popular choices among vegetarians in Indian cuisine.

Q: Is matar paneer healthy?

Matar Paneer can be considered a relatively healthy dish when prepared with wholesome ingredients and consumed in moderation. It offers several nutritional benefits due to its key components: green peas (matar) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese).

Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Matar Paneer contains green peas, which are a good source of dietary fiber, essential vitamins (such as A, C, and B vitamins), and minerals like iron and potassium. Paneer provides protein, calcium, and phosphorus, supporting bone health.

Satiety and Protein: The combination of paneer and peas contributes to a satisfying protein content, promoting a feeling of fullness after eating.

Balanced Meal: Matar Paneer is often served with Indian bread (roti) or rice, creating a well-rounded meal that offers a variety of nutrients.

Healthy Cooking Practices: To maintain its healthiness, it’s advisable to use minimal oil, avoid excessive use of cream or butter, and opt for healthier cooking methods.

Sodium and Spices: As with many Indian dishes, Matar Paneer may have higher sodium levels due to salt and certain spices. Being mindful of salt usage and choosing lower-sodium spices can be beneficial.

Moderation Matters: As with any dish, consuming Matar Paneer in moderation is key to a balanced diet, ensuring a diverse intake of nutrients.

Personal Considerations: The perception of “healthiness” varies depending on individual dietary preferences, health conditions, and lifestyle choices. Adjusting the recipe or portion size according to specific dietary needs is always a good practice.

In conclusion, Matar Paneer can be a nutritious and delectable addition to a well-balanced diet when prepared with wholesome ingredients and consumed in appropriate portions. As with any food, it’s essential to consider the overall context of one’s diet and individual health requirements to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Q: Which paneer is best in taste?

A: The taste of paneer can be subjective, and what is considered “best” can vary depending on individual preferences and the way it is prepared. However, there are a few different types of paneer available, each with its own unique taste and texture:

1. Fresh Homemade Paneer: Many people prefer fresh homemade paneer as it allows them to control the ingredients and adjust the taste to their liking. Homemade paneer tends to be soft, moist, and has a mild, creamy flavor.

2. Store-Bought Paneer: Store-bought paneer is a convenient option and is readily available in most grocery stores. Its taste may vary depending on the brand and quality. Some store-bought paneer can be firmer and have a slightly different texture compared to homemade paneer.

3. Malai Paneer: Malai paneer is made by using full-fat milk or cream, giving it a richer taste and a softer, creamier texture. It is often preferred in dishes where a more indulgent flavor is desired.

4. Smoked Paneer (Bhujia Paneer): Smoked paneer has a unique flavor profile due to the smoking process, which infuses it with a smoky aroma and taste. This type of paneer is commonly used in certain Indian dishes for added depth of flavor.

5. Tofu Paneer: While not traditional paneer, tofu can sometimes be used as a substitute due to its similar texture. Tofu has a mild taste and can absorb the flavors of the dish it is cooked in.

Ultimately, the “best” paneer in taste is a matter of personal preference. Some may prefer the simplicity and freshness of homemade paneer, while others might enjoy the richness of malai paneer or the smoky flavor of smoked paneer. It’s best to try different types of paneer and recipes to find the one that suits your taste buds the most.