"Try this easy matar paneer recipe with fresh cheese! A creamy, flavorful Indian dish made with peas, spices, and homemade paneer. Perfect for dinner!"
Here’s a list of all the ingredients for **Matar Paneer** (a popular Indian dish with fresh cheese and peas), formatted with SEO-friendly keywords and bullet points:
- **Paneer (Indian Cottage Cheese)** - Fresh, cubed paneer for a rich and creamy texture.
- **Green Peas (Matar)** - Fresh or frozen green peas for sweetness and color.
- **Tomatoes** - Fresh, ripe tomatoes or tomato puree for the tangy base.
- **Onions** - Finely chopped onions for a flavorful base.
- **Ginger-Garlic Paste** - Freshly made or store-bought for aromatic depth.
- **Green Chilies** - Optional, for a spicy kick.
- **Cumin Seeds (Jeera)** - For tempering and earthy flavor.
- **Turmeric Powder (Haldi)** - Adds color and health benefits.
- **Coriander Powder (Dhania Powder)** - Ground coriander for a warm, citrusy flavor.
- **Garam Masala** - A blend of spices for authentic Indian flavor.
- **Red Chili Powder** - Adjust to taste for heat.
- **Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves)** - Crushed for a unique, slightly bitter flavor.
- **Fresh Cream** - Optional, for a creamy texture.
- **Cooking Oil or Ghee** - For sautéing and richness.
- **Salt** - To taste.
- **Fresh Coriander Leaves (Cilantro)** - Chopped for garnish and freshness.
- **Water** - For adjusting the gravy consistency.
**Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor:**
- **Bay Leaf (Tej Patta)** - For a subtle aroma.
- **Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini)** - Adds warmth to the dish.
- **Cardamom Pods (Elaichi)** - For a hint of sweetness.
- **Heavy Cream or Yogurt** - For a richer gravy.
This **Matar Paneer recipe** is perfect for those looking for a **vegetarian Indian curry** with **fresh cheese** and **green peas**. It’s a **healthy, protein-rich dish** that’s easy to make and pairs well with **naan, roti, or rice**.
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Steps
# How to Make Matar Paneer with Fresh Cheese: A Step-by-Step Guide
Matar Paneer is a classic North Indian dish that combines fresh cheese (paneer) and green peas (matar) in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy. This vegetarian recipe is packed with flavor and is perfect for a hearty meal. Below is a detailed, SEO-friendly guide to making Matar Paneer with fresh cheese at home.
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## **Ingredients for Matar Paneer**
- **For Paneer (Fresh Cheese):**
- 1 liter full-fat milk
- 2 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
- 1 cup water (for rinsing)
- **For Matar Paneer Gravy:**
- 2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-2 green chilies, slit
- 1/2 cup fresh cream or yogurt
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 2 tbsp cooking oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare Fresh Paneer (Cheese)**
1. Heat 1 liter of full-fat milk in a heavy-bottomed pan on medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Once the milk comes to a boil, reduce the heat and add 2 tbsp of lemon juice or vinegar. Stir gently until the milk curdles and separates into curds and whey.
3. Turn off the heat and strain the mixture through a muslin cloth. Rinse the curds under cold water to remove the sour taste.
4. Tie the cloth tightly and hang it for 30 minutes to drain excess water. Place a heavy object on top to press the paneer into a firm block.
5. Cut the paneer into cubes and set aside.
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### **2. Prepare the Matar Paneer Gravy**
1. Heat 2 tbsp of oil or ghee in a pan. Add 1 tsp cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add grated ginger, minced garlic, and slit green chilies. Sauté for 2 minutes.
4. Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
5. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Add green peas and 1/2 cup water. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until the peas are tender.
7. Stir in fresh cream or yogurt to make the gravy creamy.
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### **3. Add Paneer and Finish the Dish**
1. Gently add the paneer cubes to the gravy. Stir carefully to avoid breaking the paneer.
2. Sprinkle garam masala and cook for another 2-3 minutes on low heat.
3. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
Serve Matar Paneer hot with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice. Pair it with a side of raita or salad for a complete meal.
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This detailed guide ensures you can make restaurant-style Matar Paneer at home with ease. Enjoy this flavorful, protein-rich dish with your loved ones!