A Flavorful Indian Delight!
Ever found yourself craving something desi, creamy, and bursting with flavours? Well, what if I told you there’s a dish that’s easy to whip up and satisfies your taste buds in every bite?
Enter matar paneer, or as some might say, mutter paneer. This delightful Indian delicacy is a compelling blend of soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and green peas in a rich masala gravy. Curious yet?
Let’s dive into the world of flavours and see how we can bring this dish to life in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
Following are the ingredients to prepare the recipe.
- 200g paneer (cubed)
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 large onions (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (pureed)
- 2 green chillies (slit)
- 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tsp matar paneer masala (available at most Indian grocery stores)
- 1 tsp red chilli powder
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- 2 tsp cumin seeds
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
- Oil or ghee for cooking
Steps:
Follow the steps to complete the recipe:
1: Sizzle those Seeds
Begin by heating oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and wait for them to splutter. Ever noticed how just this small step can release a wave of aroma that sets the culinary mood right?
2: Onions, Chillies, and Ginger-Garlic Magic
Add the finely chopped onions and green chillies. Sauté till the onions turn translucent. Add ginger-garlic paste and stir until the raw smell vanishes. What’s cooking without the invigorating dance of ginger and garlic?
3: Tomato Transformation
Pour in the tomato puree, followed by the matar paneer masala, red chilli powder, turmeric, and coriander powder. Cook until the oil starts separating from the masala. Did someone say a thick, rich gravy? Yes, please!
4: Peas and Paneer Party
Now, introduce the green peas and paneer cubes to this aromatic masala. Mix gently, ensuring the paneer doesn’t break.
Here’s where the name dry matar paneer recipe might mislead you. Although it’s not a runny curry, the masala coats each paneer cube in an oh-so-satisfying way!
5: Simmer & Serve
Add some water according to the desired consistency, season with salt, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Now, for those looking for a twist, have you ever tried the aloo matar paneer recipe? Just imagine the goodness of potatoes in this mix. Or perhaps you’re seeking more than peas and paneer? Dive into the mutter masala recipe for a variation. The possibilities are endless!
To Wrap It Up…
A dish that’s both comforting and luxurious, matar paneer is your answer to a mid-week dinner craving or even a weekend feast. So why wait?
Dive into your culinary journey, and let’s bring the heart of India to your plate today! And hey, who knows? Your next creation may have your very own special twist. Food for thought, isn’t it?
Matar Paneer Recipe Punjabi Style: A Rich, Creamy Delight!
The vibrant state of Punjab in India is synonymous with its rich culinary traditions. Think of hearty meals, butter-laden delicacies, and the authentic flavour of spices, and you’re immediately transported to a Punjabi kitchen.
Within this culinary repertoire, the Punjabi-style matar paneer holds a special place. Unlike the regular matar paneer, this version is creamier, richer, and indulgent. Let’s explore this sumptuous variation!
Ingredients
You’ll require the following ingredients:
- All ingredients from the earlier recipe.
- 2 tbsp of fresh cream (malai)
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp dried fenugreek leaves (Kasuri methi), crushed
Steps:
Follow the steps to learn the recipe:
1: Butter it Up
Let’s start by heating some butter in your pan in true Punjabi fashion. The aroma of melting butter? Instant hunger pangs!
2: Onion-Tomato Base
Similar to the original recipe, fry your onions, green chillies, and ginger-garlic paste. Once golden, add in your tomato puree and the spices, but hold off on the matar paneer masala for now.
3: Creamy Dreamy Addition
Once the masala mix leaves oil, add the fresh cream and mix well. This is what gives our Punjabi version its signature richness.
4: Paneer & Peas Fusion
Slide in your paneer cubes and green peas, stirring gently to avoid breaking the paneer.
5: Spice it Right
Now, sprinkle the matar paneer and garam masala, giving it a good mix. The garam masala, with its blend of ground spices, introduces a warmth characteristic of Punjabi dishes.
6: Kasuri Methi Magic
For the final touch, sprinkle crushed kasuri methi, which lends a wonderful aroma and depth to the dish. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
7: Garnish & Relish
As before, garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with a side of buttered naan or jeera rice.
A Final Note…
The Punjabi-style matar paneer is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Every bite is a harmonious blend of rich creaminess and aromatic spices, making it a favourite in households and restaurants.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, this recipe will impress. So, ready to travel to Punjab via your kitchen?
Happy cooking!
Takeaway
Matar paneer, an iconic dish from the Indian subcontinent, is a testimony to the region’s rich and diverse culinary tapestry.
Whether you opt for the classic preparation or the indulgent Punjabi style, the harmonious blend of spices, paneer, and peas ensures a delectable treat for your taste buds.
Like any dish, the quality of ingredients, the love with which it’s made, and the authenticity of the method all play a role in the result.
So, with the recipes, you can embark on a delightful culinary journey.
FAQ’s
What is matar paneer made of?
Is mattar paneer healthy?
What are the ingredients in MTR mutter paneer?
How to thicken matar paneer gravy?
How to soften paneer in gravy?
How do you make the homemade gravy thick?
Cornstarch Slurry: Mix cornstarch with cold water and then pour it into the boiling gravy, stirring continuously.
Flour Roux: Cook equal parts of butter and flour until it forms a smooth paste, and then whisk it into the gravy.
Reducing: Simmer the gravy on low heat allowing the excess water to evaporate.
Natural ingredients: Ingredients like mashed potatoes, yoghurt, cream, or puréed onions and tomatoes can be added to thicken the gravy while enhancing flavour.
Happy cooking, and may your culinary experiments bring the chef and the diners joy!