How to make Matar Paneer at home?

About Matar Paneer.

Matar Paneer is a beloved North Indian dish that combines the earthy goodness of green peas (“matar”) with the creamy richness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese). This popular vegetarian delicacy is a staple in Indian households and restaurants alike. The dish showcases tender green peas and soft paneer cubes nestled in a luscious tomato-based gravy infused with aromatic spices. Matar Paneer is celebrated for its harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making it a cherished favorite among those who appreciate the comfort and elegance of Indian cuisine.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Matar Paneer at home:

Ingredients for making Matar Paneer:

• 1 cup paneer (cottage cheese), cubed
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 large tomatoes, blanched and pureed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing
• Salt to taste

Instructions for making Matar Paneer:

1. Sautéing Onions:
   • Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
2. Spices and Tomatoes:
   • Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté until the raw smell disappears.
   • Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook the spices for a minute.
   • Add tomato puree and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil separates.
3. Peas and Paneer:
   • Add green peas to the gravy and cook for a few minutes until they soften.
   • Gently add the paneer cubes and mix carefully to avoid breaking them.
4. Cream or Milk Addition:
   • Pour in milk or heavy cream. Stir well to combine and simmer for a couple of minutes.
5. Garam Masala and Finishing:
   • Sprinkle garam masala over the dish. Adjust salt if needed.
   • Simmer for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld together.
6. Garnishing and Serving:
   • Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
   • Serve Matar Paneer hot with Indian bread (roti, naan) or steamed rice.

Tips:

• To retain the vibrant green color of peas, blanch and shock them in cold water before adding to the gravy.
• Adjust the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder according to your spice preference.
• For a richer taste, use heavy cream; for a lighter option, use milk.
• Optionally, you can lightly fry the paneer cubes before adding them to the gravy for added texture.

By following these steps, you’ll create a delightful Matar Paneer dish that’s sure to be a hit at your table.

Nutritional Value for Matar Paneer.

The nutritional value of Matar Paneer can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used in the recipe. Here’s an approximate breakdown for a typical serving of Matar Paneer:

Nutritional Values for Matar Paneer (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal
• Carbohydrates: Around 15-20 grams
• Protein: About 10-15 grams
• Fat: Approximately 15-20 grams
  • Saturated Fat: Around 5-7 grams
  • Monounsaturated Fat: Approximately 7-10 grams
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: About 2-3 grams
• Fiber: Around 3-5 grams (depending on vegetable content)
• Sugar: Approximately 5-7 grams (from natural sources)
• Sodium: Varies based on salt content

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the type of paneer used, the amount of oil or ghee, and specific variations in the recipe. Additionally, serving sizes may differ, so it’s important to adjust these values according to your portion size.

Health Benefits of Matar Paneer.

Matar Paneer not only delights the palate but also offers several health benefits due to its nutritious ingredients and balanced preparation:

1. Protein Source: Paneer (cottage cheese) is a rich source of high-quality protein, providing essential amino acids for muscle maintenance, repair, and overall body functions.

2. Nutrient-Rich Peas: Green peas (“matar”) are loaded with vitamins (such as vitamin K and folate), minerals (like manganese and iron), and dietary fiber that contribute to overall well-being.

3. Calcium Intake: Paneer contains calcium, essential for bone health, teeth strength, and nerve function. It’s especially beneficial for individuals who don’t consume dairy.

4. Balanced Nutrition: The combination of paneer and peas provides a balanced intake of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, which are crucial for sustained energy levels.

5. Digestive Health: The dietary fiber in peas aids digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and supports gut health by nourishing beneficial gut bacteria.

6. Weight Management: Matar Paneer’s protein and fiber content contribute to feelings of fullness, potentially aiding in portion control and weight management.

7. Vitamin C Boost: Tomatoes used in the gravy provide vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health.

8. Controlled Spice Levels: You can adjust the spice levels in the dish, making it suitable for those with different spice preferences or sensitivities.

9. Home-Cooked Control: Preparing Matar Paneer at home allows you to control the quality of ingredients, minimize additives, and avoid excessive use of oil.

10. Versatile Ingredients: The versatility of peas and paneer makes it possible to customize the dish with other nutrient-rich vegetables, enhancing its nutritional value.

11. Mindful Eating: The flavors and textures of Matar Paneer can promote mindful eating, encouraging you to savor each bite and recognize feelings of fullness.

12. Cultural Connection: Enjoying traditional dishes like Matar Paneer can deepen cultural connections, fostering a sense of nostalgia and well-being.

It’s important to remember that the overall nutritional impact of Matar Paneer can be influenced by factors like portion size, cooking methods, and ingredient choices. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods for optimal health benefits.

Tips and Tricks for Making Matar Paneer.

Here are some tips and tricks to help you make a delicious and flavorful Matar Paneer:

1. Paneer Quality:

• Use fresh paneer for the best taste and texture. You can make paneer at home or buy it from a reliable source.

2. Blanching Peas:

• If using fresh peas, blanch them briefly in boiling water and then shock them in cold water. This helps retain their vibrant green color and crispness.

3. Sautéing Onions:

• Sauté the onions until they turn golden brown. This imparts a sweet and caramelized flavor to the gravy.

4. Tomato Puree:

• Blanche tomatoes, remove the skin, and puree them. This creates a smooth base for the gravy without the skin’s texture.

5. Spice Levels:

• Adjust the spice levels to your taste preference. You can control the amount of green chilies and red chili powder for desired heat.

6. Paneer Texture:

• To prevent paneer from becoming rubbery, add it towards the end of cooking and gently stir to incorporate without breaking.

7. Creamy Addition:

• To make the dish creamier, add a splash of milk or heavy cream. This adds richness and balances the flavors.

8. Garam Masala Timing:

• Add garam masala towards the end of cooking to preserve its aromatic flavors. Overcooking can diminish its taste.

9. Fresh Coriander Garnish:

• Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for added freshness and visual appeal.

10. Serving Warm:

• Matar Paneer is best enjoyed warm. Reheating can alter the texture of the paneer, so try to serve it fresh.

11. Accompaniments:

• Pair with Indian breads like roti, naan, or paratha, or serve with steamed rice for a complete meal.

12. Variety in Peas:

• You can use fresh or frozen green peas, depending on availability. Just blanch fresh peas before using.

13. Optional Additions:

• Add a handful of cashews or almonds to the gravy while blending for added richness and creaminess.

14. Onion Texture:

• For a variation, you can finely chop half the onions and slice the other half to create a textural contrast in the dish.

15. Resting Time:

• Allow the flavors to meld by letting the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well-equipped to create a scrumptious and well-balanced Matar Paneer that captures the essence of this classic Indian dish.

Serving Suggestions for Matar Paneer.

Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your enjoyment of Matar Paneer:

1. Indian Breads:

• Serve Matar Paneer with freshly made roti, naan, paratha, or kulcha. The soft and chewy texture of the bread complements the rich gravy.

2. Steamed Rice:

• Enjoy the dish with fragrant steamed Basmati rice. The fluffy rice acts as a perfect canvas to absorb the flavorful gravy.

3. Pulao or Biryani:

• Pair Matar Paneer with jeera rice, vegetable pulao, or fragrant biryani for an exquisite meal combination.

4. Yogurt Raita:

• Balance the flavors with a cooling yogurt-based raita. Mint raita or cucumber raita can provide a refreshing contrast.

5. Pickles and Chutneys:

• Accompany the dish with a variety of Indian pickles or chutneys for an extra punch of tanginess and spice.

6. Fresh Salad:

• Serve a side salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes drizzled with a light vinaigrette to add freshness to the meal.

7. Papad or Crisps:

• Add a crunch to your plate with papad (thin lentil crisps) or other crunchy snacks for a delightful contrast in textures.

8. Family Style:

• Place the dish at the center of the table and let everyone help themselves, creating a communal dining experience.

9. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:

• Sprinkle chopped fresh coriander leaves or mint leaves over the dish to enhance the aroma and visual appeal.

10. Accompaniments for Events:

• Include Matar Paneer as part of a larger spread for special occasions, celebrations, or gatherings with friends and family.

11. Curated Thali:

• Serve Matar Paneer as part of a traditional Indian thali, featuring a variety of dishes, breads, and accompaniments.

12. Balanced Side Dishes:

• Pair with another vegetable-based dish or a lentil preparation for a well-rounded meal that covers different food groups.

By choosing from these serving suggestions, you can tailor the meal experience to your preferences and create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures with Matar Paneer as the star attraction.

FAQs for Matar Paneer.