Print

Matar Paneer

Matar Paneer
Print Recipe

This easy and vibrant Matar Paneer recipe combines soft paneer cubes and tender green peas in a rich, spiced tomato gravy, creating a classic North Indian vegetarian dish that’s quick to make, flavorful, and perfect for any meal occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Paneer and Vegetables

  • 250 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 medium ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1–2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste (freshly grated or minced)

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste

Other Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
  • 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth (to adjust gravy consistency)
  • Fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
    Finely chop onions, tomatoes, and green chilies. Prepare ginger-garlic paste by grating or mincing fresh ginger and garlic. Cut paneer into even cubes and measure out the green peas.
  2. Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
    Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle until fragrant. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw aroma disappears.
  3. Step 3: Build the Base Gravy
    Add chopped tomatoes, salt, turmeric, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the mixture forms a thick, rich sauce, about 7 to 10 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Add Peas and Paneer
    Mix in the green peas and gently fold in the paneer cubes. Pour water or broth to reach desired gravy consistency. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 more minutes to blend flavors.
  5. Step 5: Final Touches
    Sprinkle garam masala and chopped cilantro over the dish. Stir gently, then switch off the heat. Serve hot, garnished as desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh homemade paneer for best texture and flavor.
  • Add paneer towards the end to avoid it becoming rubbery.
  • Adjust water quantity gradually to get desired gravy thickness; it should be saucy but not watery.
  • Lightly toast whole spices before adding for enhanced aroma.
  • Both fresh and frozen peas work well, with fresh peas adding extra sweetness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Matar Paneer, Indian recipe, vegetarian, paneer, green peas, spicy tomato gravy, gluten free, quick dinner

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/matar-paneer/