Best Easy Matar Paneer Recipe

Matar paneer is a classic North Indian vegetarian curry with green peas and paneer in a spiced tomato gravy. High in protein and fiber, this family favorite fits perfectly into a healthy meal plan.

Cook 40 min Difficulty NORMAL 320 kcal
#high protein #vegetarian #diabetic friendly #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • paneer (cubed) 12 oz
  • frozen green peas 1.5 cups
  • yellow onion (finely chopped) 1 cup
  • ripe tomatoes (blended) 1 cup
  • sunflower oil 2 tbsp
  • water 0.75 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • ginger-garlic paste 1 tbsp
  • cumin seeds 1 tsp
  • ground coriander 1.5 tsp
  • garam masala 1 tsp
  • ground turmeric 0.5 tsp
  • Kashmiri chili powder 0.5 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 22 g 27%
Protein 17 g 21%
Fat 18 g 52%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat sunflower oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  2. 2

    Add chopped onions and cook on medium-low, stirring occasionally, for 6–8 minutes until golden brown but not burnt.

  3. 3

    Stir in ginger-garlic paste; sauté for 1 minute, then add blended tomatoes and cook on medium heat until oil separates, about 6 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

  4. 4

    Add turmeric, ground coriander, chili powder, and 3/4 tsp salt. Cook for 1 minute, mixing thoroughly, until the masalas are well incorporated.

  5. 5

    Stir in green peas, paneer cubes, and water. Mix gently and simmer on low heat with the lid on for 12 minutes, ensuring the peas are tender and paneer absorbs flavors.

  6. 6

    Sprinkle garam masala and remaining salt. Cook uncovered for 2 more minutes on low, gently folding the curry to prevent paneer from breaking.

  7. 7

    Turn off heat, cover, and let rest for 5 minutes for flavors to meld before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Best Easy Matar Paneer Recipe?
Paneer is the central ingredient in this dish, giving the curry its signature creamy texture and high protein content. The pairing with green peas ensures both traditional flavor and a pleasant sweetness, while the tomato-based gravy delivers the classic North Indian taste.
Q. What is the most critical cooking technique to get the right flavor?
Sautéing onions until golden brown and cooking the tomato-ginger-garlic mixture until the oil separates is essential for unlocking deep, rich flavors. This step ensures the curry base has a proper balance, and brings out the aroma of the spices.
Q. How can I prevent the paneer from becoming rubbery in this recipe?
Simmer the paneer gently on low heat and avoid overcooking. Adding paneer toward the end, and letting it rest off heat ensures the cubes stay soft and absorb the curry flavors instead of turning rubbery.
Q. What are the nutrition facts per serving for this Matar Paneer?
Each serving (220g) provides roughly 320 kcal, with 22g carbohydrates (27% of calories), 17g protein (21%), and 18g fat (52%). This recipe is high in protein and suitable for those monitoring carb intake.
Q. Is this Matar Paneer considered vegetarian and healthy?
Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian, and the use of paneer with peas makes the dish rich in protein and fiber. It's cooked in minimal oil, does not include any meat or seafood, and fits several healthy meal plans, including diabetic friendly and Mediterranean diets.
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