Matar Paneer Recipe: Matar Paneer is one of those comforting Indian curries that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Made with soft cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and fresh green peas simmered in a rich, spiced tomato-onion gravy, this dish has earned its place as a staple in North Indian households. Whether served at festive gatherings, casual family dinners, or special occasions, it never fails to impress.
So, what makes Matar Paneer so loved? It’s the balance of flavors—sweetness from peas, creaminess from paneer, and the bold kick of Indian spices all brought together in a luscious curry. Unlike some complicated Indian dishes, Matar Paneer is straightforward to prepare, making it perfect even for beginner cooks.
Another reason for its popularity is its versatility. You can enjoy it with fluffy naan, soft roti, or a bowl of steaming basmati rice. Its universal appeal stretches beyond India, and you’ll often find it on the menu of Indian restaurants worldwide.
Think of Matar Paneer as that friend who gets along with everyone—it’s comforting, hearty, and satisfying. And the best part? You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste, whether you prefer it mild, spicy, creamy, or even vegan. In this article, we’ll walk through the ingredients, preparation steps, tips, and variations, so you can cook the perfect bowl of Matar Paneer at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Matar Paneer
To prepare a delicious bowl of Matar Paneer, you don’t need anything fancy—just fresh veggies, aromatic spices, and of course, paneer. Let’s break down the list:
Fresh Vegetables and Paneer
- Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) – 250 grams
- Green peas (fresh or frozen) – 1 cup
- Tomatoes – 3 medium, finely chopped or pureed
- Onions – 2 medium, finely chopped
- Green chilies – 1 to 2 (optional, for heat)
- Ginger – 1-inch piece, grated
- Garlic – 4 to 5 cloves, minced
Essential Spices and Seasonings
- Cumin seeds – 1 tsp
- Turmeric powder – ½ tsp
- Red chili powder – 1 tsp
- Coriander powder – 1½ tsp
- Garam masala – 1 tsp
- Salt – to taste
Oils, Herbs, and Garnishing Items
- Cooking oil or ghee – 3 tbsp
- Fresh cream or cashew paste – 2 tbsp (optional for richness)
- Fresh coriander leaves – chopped, for garnish
- Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) – ½ tsp
Each ingredient has a role to play. Paneer provides the protein-rich base, peas add sweetness and texture, while tomatoes and onions create a flavorful curry base. Spices are what transform these everyday ingredients into a bold, irresistible dish. Don’t skip garnishing with coriander leaves—it brings freshness that balances the richness of the curry.
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s important to have all your ingredients ready—this not only makes the process smooth but also ensures flavors are preserved.
Cutting and Cubing Paneer
Take your paneer block and cut it into medium-sized cubes. If you’re using store-bought paneer, soak it in warm water for 15 minutes to soften it before cooking. This step helps keep the paneer tender and prevents it from becoming chewy.
Cleaning and Boiling Green Peas
If using fresh peas, shell and wash them thoroughly. For frozen peas, simply rinse them under running water. You can lightly boil or steam the peas for 5 minutes to make them tender before adding them to the curry.
Prepping Onions, Tomatoes, and Spices
Chop onions finely so they blend well into the curry base. Tomatoes can be finely chopped or blended into a puree for a smoother texture. Keep all spices measured and ready in small bowls so you don’t fumble while cooking. Trust me, this step makes all the difference when you’re trying to follow a recipe smoothly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Matar Paneer
Now comes the fun part—cooking! Follow these steps for a flavorful, restaurant-style Matar Paneer at home.
Step 1 – Frying Paneer Cubes
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan. Lightly fry paneer cubes until golden on all sides. This gives them a slightly crispy edge and enhances their flavor. Remove and soak them in warm water to keep them soft until you add them to the curry.
Step 2 – Preparing the Onion-Tomato Masala
In the same pan, add 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee. Toss in cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger, garlic, and green chilies. Once fragrant, add tomatoes and cook until the mixture turns into a thick masala base.
Step 3 – Adding Spices and Blending Masala
Sprinkle turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well and let the masala cook until oil separates from the sides. If you prefer a smooth curry, blend this masala into a paste and then return it to the pan.
Step 4 – Cooking Peas and Paneer Together
Add boiled peas to the masala and mix thoroughly. Pour in 1 to 1½ cups of water (depending on how thick or thin you want the curry). Let it simmer for 5 minutes before adding paneer cubes. Stir gently so paneer doesn’t break. Cover and cook for 7–8 minutes so all flavors combine beautifully.
Step 5 – Garnishing and Serving Hot
Finally, sprinkle garam masala, crushed kasuri methi, and add a spoon of cream or cashew paste for richness. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Your Matar Paneer is ready to be served hot with naan, chapati, or rice.
Tips and Variations for Perfect Matar Paneer
Matar Paneer is versatile, and with a few tweaks, you can adapt it to your liking.
Restaurant-Style vs. Home-Style Matar Paneer
- Restaurant-style often uses cream or butter for richness.
- Home-style is lighter, often cooked with less oil and more spices.
Healthier Alternatives and Vegan Options
- Replace paneer with tofu for a vegan version.
- Use cashew paste instead of cream for dairy-free creaminess.
- Reduce oil and skip frying paneer for a low-fat version.
Quick Hacks for Busy Days
- Use store-bought onion-tomato masala to save time.
- Frozen peas work just as well as fresh ones.
- Skip frying paneer and directly add cubes for a quicker version.
Nutritional Value of Matar Paneer
Matar Paneer isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients. When made with fresh ingredients and balanced spices, it becomes a wholesome dish suitable for both everyday meals and special occasions.
Calories and Protein Content
Paneer is an excellent source of protein, especially for vegetarians who rely on dairy products for their protein intake. A single serving of Matar Paneer provides around 200–250 calories depending on how much oil and cream you use. Paneer also offers healthy fats that keep you feeling full and energized.
For those looking to build muscle or maintain a healthy diet, paneer works wonders. It’s rich in casein protein, which digests slowly and helps in muscle recovery. Peas add to the protein count while being low in calories, making the dish filling without being too heavy.
Vitamins and Minerals from Ingredients
- Paneer provides calcium for bone health and vitamin D for better absorption.
- Green peas are packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants that boost immunity.
- Tomatoes bring in lycopene, an antioxidant known for heart health.
- Onions and garlic have anti-inflammatory properties and help improve digestion.
- Spices like turmeric and cumin not only enhance flavor but also provide medicinal benefits.
So, while it tastes indulgent, Matar Paneer can easily fit into a balanced diet if cooked with the right proportions of oil and cream.
Serving Suggestions
Matar Paneer is versatile when it comes to pairing. Its rich curry makes it perfect with both Indian breads and rice-based dishes.
Best Indian Breads to Pair With Matar Paneer
- Naan: The soft, fluffy texture of naan makes it the best choice for soaking up the curry.
- Roti or Chapati: A lighter option compared to naan, perfect for everyday meals.
- Paratha: Adds a flaky, buttery twist to the meal.
- Poori: For a festive or indulgent touch, serve Matar Paneer with puffed pooris.
Rice Varieties That Complement the Curry
- Steamed Basmati Rice: Simple, aromatic, and lets the curry shine.
- Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice): The mild spice pairs wonderfully with the creamy curry.
- Pulao: A mildly spiced rice dish that makes the meal more festive.
- Brown Rice or Quinoa: A healthier alternative for those cutting down on carbs.
Whether you’re planning a dinner party or a quick family meal, Matar Paneer fits right in with your choice of sides.
Storage and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about Matar Paneer is that it stores well, making it great for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
How to Store Leftover Matar Paneer
- Store the curry in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 2–3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 weeks.
Best Way to Reheat Without Losing Flavor
- On Stove: Reheat in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of water or milk to prevent the curry from drying out.
- In Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid uneven heating.
- Avoid overcooking paneer while reheating, as it can turn rubbery. For frozen curry, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though Matar Paneer is simple to make, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture.
Overcooking Paneer
Paneer is delicate and should be cooked just until soft. Overcooking makes it rubbery and chewy. Always add it towards the end and simmer gently.
Using Too Many Spices
While spices are the soul of Indian cooking, going overboard can ruin the balance. Stick to the recipe’s measurements or adjust gradually based on taste. Remember, you can always add more spice, but you can’t take it out once it’s in.
Other mistakes include:
- Not sautéing onions and tomatoes long enough (this results in a raw taste).
- Skipping kasuri methi (which adds a restaurant-style aroma).
- Using low-quality paneer (fresh, soft paneer always makes a difference).
FAQs about Matar Paneer Recipe
1. Can I make Matar Paneer without frying paneer?
Yes! You can skip frying and directly add paneer cubes to the curry for a lighter version.
2. How to make vegan Matar Paneer?
Replace paneer with tofu and cream with cashew or coconut cream for a completely vegan option.
3. What is the best substitute for fresh cream?
Cashew paste or yogurt works wonderfully as a healthier alternative.
4. Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh ones?
Absolutely! Frozen peas are convenient and taste just as good in the curry.
5. How long can I store Matar Paneer in the fridge?
You can refrigerate it for 2–3 days in an airtight container or freeze for up to 2 weeks.
Conclusion
Matar Paneer is more than just a curry—it’s a comfort food that brings together the richness of paneer, the sweetness of peas, and the magic of Indian spices. Whether you’re making it for a quick weekday dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and endless variations, you can make this dish exactly the way you like it—creamy, spicy, or light.
So next time you’re craving an authentic Indian curry, skip the takeout and try making Matar Paneer at home. Trust me, once you master it, it’ll become one of your go-to recipes for life.
