Thursday, August 19, 2010

Mattar Paneer (Peas and Paneer Cheese In Tomato Sauce)

Mattar Paneer is a classic North Indian entree. You do have to plan ahead in case you prefer to make your own homemade paneer. Now that paneer is available for purchase, it is very easy to prepare Mattar Paneer. For a delicious vegan option, use firm tofu instead of the paneer.

Ingredients:

1 lb block Paneer
1 lb. Fresh or Frozen Peas
1 large Onion, finely chopped
1/2 " piece fresh Ginger, grated
1 clove Garlic (optional)
1/2 tsp Turmeric
1/2 tsp ground Red Pepper (cayenne)
1 tsp Sea Salt, freshly ground black pepper
2 large Tomatoes, chopped
1 Red Bell Pepper, finely chopped
1 Tbsp oil/ghee
1tsp Garam Masala
4 Tbsp fresh Cilantro, chopped for garnish

Method:

Cut the paneer into small bite-sized cubes.

Heat a large skillet or wok.

Add oil, onions, ginger, garlic, turmeric and red pepper and freshly ground black pepper with the salt and cook until soft.

Stir in the tomatoes and bell pepper; cook stirring until tomatoes cook and form a sauce.

Stir in the paneer cubes and the peas; simmer gently for about 15 minutes.

Sprinkle the garam masala on top, remove from heat and set aside for 10 minutes.

Garnish with the cilantro and serve hot with rice dishes, chapati, or other Indian breads such as naan. Enjoy!!

3 comments:

Minime said...

I love to use firm tofu instead of paneer.
With taste there is no difference when you cook everything together.(At least with good tofu,not the super cheap one)

I do not use the extra firm, it is too hard if you compare it to paneer.

Geetha said...

Hello Vegancat, Thank you for stopping and leaving your comment. Although I often use firm paneer as stated in the recipe as a vegan option, I do enjoy the making this dish with sweet paneer occasionally for an authentic recipe. Happy cooking to you! - G

Geetha said...

Oops.. meant to say that I use firm tofu often ...I guess I have paneer on my mind :D