Matar Paneer is one of the most popular North Indian paneer dishes. It is a simple  preparation that can be made with the easily available, everyday ingredients in your kitchen. Be it a simple weekday lunch or a fancy dinner party, a well-made Matar Paneer is always a delight! For a truly authentic and seasonal experience, Make your Matar Paneer with freshly peeled peas during the winters.




Certainly! Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make Matar Paneer:

Ingredients:

- 1 cup paneer (cottage cheese), cubed


- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, pureed

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

- 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise (adjust to taste)

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1 teaspoon garam masala

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to spice preference)

- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder

- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (coriander leaves), chopped

- 2 tablespoons cooking oil

- Salt to taste



Instructions:


1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.

2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for a minute until the raw aroma dissipates.

4. Reduce the heat to low and add the tomato puree. Cook for a few minutes until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.

5. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Mix well and cook for a minute to roast the spices.

6. Add the green peas and paneer cubes to the pan. Stir gently to coat them with the masala.

7. Season with salt and cover the pan. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

8. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. If the mixture appears too dry, you can add a splash of water.

9. Once the peas are cooked and the paneer is soft, sprinkle garam masala and chopped cilantro over the dish.

10. Give it a final stir, then turn off the heat.

11. Matar Paneer is ready to be served. Garnish with additional cilantro if desired.

12. Serve hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice.



Enjoy your homemade Matar Paneer!