7-Step Matar Paneer Recipe | Authentic North Indian Green Peas Paneer Curry

Learn how to make authentic North Indian Matar Paneer Recipe — a flavorful curry made with green peas and soft paneer in a rich tomato gravy. Step-by-step Bhimascook guide with tips, storage, and serving ideas.

🪔 Introduction

Matar Paneer Recipe is one of India’s most beloved vegetarian dishes — a true celebration of North Indian flavors. Made with tender paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and green peas simmered in a rich tomato-onion gravy, this dish is a winter favorite in Indian households.

Whether it’s served with jeera rice, hot phulkas, or parathas, Matar Paneer holds a timeless charm. From Punjabi dhabas to home kitchens, it’s a comforting classic that brings warmth to every meal.

Let’s make this restaurant-style Matar Paneer recipe right at home with Bhimascook’s authentic step-by-step method.

🧄 Ingredients (Serves 4)

Main Ingredients

• 200 g fresh paneer, cubed

• 1 cup green peas (matar) – fresh or frozen

• 2 medium onions, finely chopped

• 2 medium tomatoes, pureed

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 2 green chilies, slit

• 3 tbsp oil or ghee

Spices

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

• Salt to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped

• 2 tbsp cream (optional)

🔪 Step-by-Step Matar Paneer Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Base Masala

1. Heat oil or ghee in a kadhai.

2. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf. Let them splutter.

3. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.

4. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies; cook for a minute.

Step 2: Add Tomato Puree and Spices

1. Add tomato puree and cook until oil separates.

2. Mix in turmeric, red chili, coriander powder, and salt.

3. Stir and cook the masala for 5–6 minutes on low flame.

Step 3: Add Green Peas

1. Add green peas and ½ cup water.

2. Cover and cook until peas soften (5–7 minutes).

Step 4: Add Paneer and Simmer

1. Gently add paneer cubes to the gravy.

2. Mix lightly to avoid breaking the paneer.

3. Add garam masala and kasuri methi.

4. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the gravy thickens.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Turn off the heat and add cream if desired.

2. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Your aromatic Matar Paneer is ready to serve!

🍛 Serving Suggestions

Serve Matar Paneer hot with:

• Jeera Rice or Basmati Rice

• Phulkas, Chapati, or Butter Naan

• Accompanied with salad, pickle, and papad for a complete meal.

🧊 Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Freezer: You can freeze the curry base (without paneer) for up to 1 month. Add paneer and peas fresh before serving.

🩵 Health Benefits

• Paneer is rich in protein and calcium.

• Green peas provide fiber, vitamins A and K.

• Ideal for vegetarians seeking a balanced, hearty meal.

• Gluten-free and can be made vegan by substituting paneer with tofu.

🌿 Expert Tips

• Fry paneer cubes lightly for a firmer texture.

• Always use fresh peas during winter for natural sweetness.

• Adjust consistency by adding water or milk as needed.

• For restaurant-style taste, use a blend of butter and ghee.

📊 Quick Facts

🔗 Usefull Links

• Paneer Butter Masala Recipe

• Jeera Rice Recipe

• Homemade Paneer Recipe

For more authentic paneer recipes, visit NDTV Food’s Paneer Collection (DoFollow link)

🙋‍♀️ FAQs

Q1. What is the difference between Matar Paneer and Shahi Paneer?
A1. Matar Paneer uses green peas in a spiced tomato gravy, while Shahi Paneer is richer with cashew and cream-based gravy.

Q2. Can I make Matar Paneer without onion and garlic?
A2. Yes! Replace onions with extra tomatoes and a pinch of hing (asafoetida) for flavor.

Q3. How can I make vegan Matar Paneer?
A3. Replace paneer with tofu and cream with coconut milk for a vegan-friendly version.

Q4. Is Matar Paneer good for weight loss?
A4. Use less oil, skip cream, and pair it with roti or brown rice for a balanced meal.

Q5. What can I serve with Matar Paneer for guests?
A5. Pair it with naan, jeera rice, and raita for a wholesome Indian thali experience.

🪔 Conclusion

This Matar Paneer Recipe is a perfect combination of nutrition and flavor — a North Indian classic that never goes out of style. With Bhimascook’s step-by-step guide, you can easily recreate this restaurant-style curry at home.

👉 Try it today, and don’t forget to check out our Paneer Butter Masala Recipe next!

👩‍🍳 Author Pack

Author: Bhima Sharma
Bio: Bhima is a passionate vegetarian cook and founder of Bhimascook.com, dedicated to preserving India’s rich culinary heritage through authentic, easy-to-follow recipes.