Matar Paneer: A Heartwarming Recipe Crafted with Love

Introduction:

Matar Paneer is a classic North Indian dish that combines the creamy goodness of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with the vibrant flavors of green peas (matar). This vegetarian delight is a staple in many households and a popular choice in Indian restaurants. Let’s dive into creating this mouthwatering Matar Paneer recipe, Matar Paneer: A Heartwarming Recipe Crafted with Love.

Ingredients: For the Gravy:

• 2 cups of blanched green peas (matar)
• 250 grams of paneer (cottage cheese), cubed
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup of fresh cream
• 1/2 cup of cashew nuts, soaked in warm water
• 2 tablespoons of oil
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon of garam masala
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish

For the Spice Mix (Masala):

• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 2-3 cloves
• 2-3 green cardamom pods
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon of coriander seeds
• 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Spice Mix:

• In a dry pan, roast the cinnamon, cloves, green cardamom, bay leaf, coriander seeds, and cumin seeds until fragrant. Allow them to cool, then grind them into a fine powder. This is your homemade masala mix.

2. Preparing the Cashew Nut Paste:

• Grind the soaked cashew nuts into a smooth paste using a little water. Set this paste aside for later.

3. Sautéing the Onions:

• Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and slightly brown.

4. Adding Aromatics:

• Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for a few more minutes until the raw smell disappears.

5. Adding Tomato Puree:

• Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan and cook until the oil starts to separate from the tomato mixture.

6. Incorporating the Spice Mix:

• Now, add your homemade spice mix (masala) along with turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for a few minutes, allowing the spices to meld with the tomato mixture.

7. Cashew Nut Paste and Cream:

• Add the cashew nut paste and fresh cream to the pan. Stir well and cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken and become creamy.

8. Adding Green Peas and Paneer:

• Toss in the blanched green peas and cubed paneer. Gently mix everything together and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until the paneer absorbs the flavors.

9. Finishing Touch:

• Sprinkle garam masala and give it a final stir. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

10. Serving Matar Paneer:

• Garnish with chopped fresh coriander leaves, and your Matar Paneer is ready to be served.

11. Accompaniments:

• Serve this scrumptious Matar Paneer with warm naan, roti, or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Enjoy your homemade Matar Paneer, a comforting dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with Indian flavors. Your taste buds will thank you!