Are you craving a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian meal that's both easy to make and bursting with taste? Look no further than this Aalu Matar Paneer recipe! This classic Indian dish combines the creamy goodness of paneer (Indian cheese), the sweetness of peas, and the earthiness of potatoes in a rich and aromatic gravy. It's a perfect quick dinner idea, ideal for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is perfect for you. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
- 200g paneer, cubed
- 1 cup water
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
-
Sauté Aromatics: Heat the oil in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Now, add the grated ginger and minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
-
Bloom Spices: Add the ground cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala to the pan. Sauté for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant and well combined. This step is crucial for unlocking the full flavors of the spices.
-
Add Vegetables: Add the cubed potatoes and frozen peas to the pan. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Simmer in Gravy: Pour in 1 cup of water, ensuring all the vegetables are submerged. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
-
Add Paneer: Gently stir in the cubed paneer. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the paneer to heat through and absorb the flavors of the gravy. Be careful not to overcook the paneer, as it can become tough.
-
Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.
Cooking Tips for the Best Aalu Matar Paneer:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large quantity of vegetables, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your preference for spice.
- Use fresh paneer: Fresh paneer will yield the best results. If using store-bought, ensure it's of good quality.
- Don't overcook the paneer: Overcooked paneer will become rubbery. Cook it just until heated through.
Variations:
- Add Spinach: Incorporate a handful of fresh spinach for added nutrients and a vibrant green hue.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of cream or yogurt at the end for a richer, creamier gravy.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 300-350
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fat: 10-15g
This Aalu Matar Paneer recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s a great example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a flavorful and satisfying culinary experience that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!