Classic Matar Paneer
Traditional dish · Indian
A quintessential North Indian dish featuring tender green peas and soft paneer cubes simmered in a rich, spiced tomato-onion gravy. This classic version is aromatic and deeply flavorful.
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Ingredients
- Paneer250g
- Green Peas (Matar)1 cup
- Tomatoes3 medium
- Onions2 medium
- Ginger1 inch piece
- Garlic4 cloves
- Green Chilies1-2
- Ghee or Oil2 tbsp
- Cumin Seeds1 tsp
- Turmeric Powder1/2 tsp
- Coriander Powder1.5 tsp
- Garam Masala1 tsp
- Red Chili Powder1/2 tsp (or to taste)
- Cashews (optional, for richness)10-12
- Fresh Cilantrofor garnish
- Saltto taste
- Wateras needed
Steps
- 1
Puree tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Finely chop onions.
- 2
Heat ghee/oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- 3
Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- 4
Add the tomato-ginger-garlic-chili puree. Cook until oil starts to separate.
- 5
Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes.
- 6
If using cashews, soak them in warm water for 15 minutes and grind to a paste. Add this paste to the gravy and cook for 5 minutes.
- 7
Add green peas and water (about 1/2 cup or as needed for desired consistency). Bring to a simmer.
- 8
Add paneer cubes. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the peas to cook and flavors to meld.
- 9
Stir in garam masala. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- 10
Serve hot.
