Matar Paneer is a beloved North Indian dish that combines paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with green peas in a rich, spiced tomato gravy. It's a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a popular choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. This recipe will help you create a flavorful Matar Paneer that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 200g Paneer (Indian cottage cheese): Cut into cubes.
• 1 cup Green Peas: Fresh or frozen.
• 2 tbsp Oil: For cooking.
• 1 large Onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Enhances the flavor.
• 1-inch Ginger, grated: Adds warmth and spice.
• 2 large Tomatoes, finely chopped: Forms the base of the gravy.
• 1/2 cup Tomato Puree: Intensifies the tomato flavor.
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream or Yogurt: Adds richness to the gravy.
• 1 tsp Cumin Seeds: For a warm, earthy flavor.
• 1 tsp Coriander Powder: Adds a subtle, citrusy note.
• 1/2 tsp Turmeric Powder: Provides color and a mild flavor.
• 1 tsp Garam Masala: A blend of spices that adds complexity.
• 1/2 tsp Red Chili Powder: Adjust to taste for spiciness.
• Salt to taste
• Fresh Coriander for garnish: Adds a fresh, herbal touch.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Cube the Paneer: Cut the paneer into bite-sized cubes and set aside.
   • Cook the Green Peas: If using frozen peas, rinse them under warm water to thaw.

2. Make the Gravy:

   • Heat Oil: In a large pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
   • Sauté Onions, Garlic, and Ginger: Add the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are golden brown.
   • Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato puree, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.

3. Combine and Simmer:

   • Add Green Peas: Stir in the green peas and cook for 5 minutes.
   • Add Paneer: Gently add the paneer cubes to the pan. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors of the gravy.

4. Finish the Dish:

   • Add Cream or Yogurt: Stir in the heavy cream or yogurt to create a rich, creamy texture. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
   • Add Garam Masala: Sprinkle garam masala over the dish and mix well.

5. Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Conclusion

Matar Paneer is a delicious and hearty dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. If you have specific dietary requirements or health goals, it’s essential to ensure that your meals align with your nutritional needs. For expert guidance on creating a diet plan that supports your health objectives, consider reaching out to the best online nutritionist in India, Dietician Natasha Mohan. She offers personalized advice to help you enjoy flavorful and nutritious meals while meeting your health and wellness goals. Enjoy your Matar Paneer and make informed choices with professional dietary support!