Matar Paneer Recipe | Easy North Indian Curry with Cottage Cheese & Peas

Learn how to make authentic Matar Paneer at home — a rich North Indian curry made with cottage cheese and green peas simmered in a spiced tomato gravy. Perfect with roti or rice!

Matar Paneer is a timeless North Indian curry that beautifully captures the soul of Indian vegetarian cuisine. A comforting blend of soft paneer cubes (Indian cottage cheese) and tender green peas simmered in a tomato-based masala, it’s a dish found in nearly every Indian household and restaurant.

This recipe highlights the balance of spices, creamy texture, and rich aroma that defines authentic Punjabi Matar Paneer. Whether served with chapati, naan, or steamed rice, this curry brings the warmth of home-cooked flavors to your plate.

🧄 Ingredients for Matar Paneer

🌰 For the Curry Base

• 2 tbsp oil or ghee

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 2 medium onions, finely chopped

• 2 medium tomatoes, pureed

• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste

• 2 green chilies, slit

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• 1 tsp coriander powder

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp garam masala

• Salt to taste

🧀 For the Main Dish

• 200 g paneer (cubed)

• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

• ½ cup water or milk (for adjusting consistency)

• 2 tbsp fresh cream (optional, for richness)

• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

🔪 How to Make Matar Paneer

Step 1: Sauté the Base

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan on medium flame.

2. Add cumin seeds; let them splutter.

3. Add onions and sauté till golden brown.

4. Mix in ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cook until aromatic.

Step 2: Prepare the Masala

1. Add tomato puree and cook till the oil separates from the masala.

2. Stir in red chili, turmeric, and coriander powder. Cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Paneer and Peas

1. Add green peas and sauté briefly.

2. Pour in ½ cup water or milk and simmer for 5–7 minutes.

3. Gently add paneer cubes and cook for another 3–4 minutes.

Step 4: Finish and Garnish

1. Stir in garam masala and cream (if using).

2. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.

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

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Pair with jeera rice or lachha paratha for a wholesome North Indian meal.

• Add a side of boondi raita and fresh salad for balance.

• For festive meals, serve alongside Dal Makhani and Jeera Aloo.

🧊 Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheat gently on low flame; add a splash of milk or water to adjust consistency.

💚 Health Benefits

• Paneer is rich in protein and calcium, ideal for vegetarians.

• Green peas offer fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A, C, and K.

• This curry provides a balanced mix of nutrients, especially when paired with whole wheat roti or brown rice.

💡 Expert Cooking Tips

1. Use fresh paneer for a soft, melt-in-mouth texture.

2. Always sauté the masala till the oil separates — this enhances flavor depth.

3. Add a small cube of butter at the end for a restaurant-style richness.

4. To make it vegan, substitute paneer with tofu and cream with cashew paste.

⚡ Quick Facts

❓ FAQs

1. What is Matar Paneer made of?
Matar Paneer is made from paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and green peas, cooked in a tomato-based spiced gravy.

2. Can I use frozen peas for Matar Paneer?
Yes, frozen peas work perfectly — just thaw before adding them to the curry.

3. How can I make Matar Paneer vegan?
Replace paneer with tofu and use coconut milk or cashew paste instead of cream.

4. Why is my paneer hard in curry?
Paneer turns hard if cooked too long; add it in the final minutes to keep it soft.

5. Is Matar Paneer healthy?
Yes, it’s a protein-rich and nutritious dish when cooked with moderate oil and fresh ingredients.

🪔 Conclusion

This Matar Paneer Recipe brings classic North Indian flavors right to your kitchen — aromatic, rich, and truly satisfying. It’s a perfect dish for both everyday meals and festive occasions. Try this easy recipe and enjoy the authentic taste of Punjabi Matar Paneer at home!

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