Create
Recipes

Paneer Matar Masala

Submitted by ElectricSweater

Paneer Matar Masala is a classic North Indian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and green peas cooked in a rich, creamy tomato-based gravy.

Source: unknown
  • ¼ cup ghee
  • ½ pound paneer or tofu
  • 1 medium onion
  • ½ teaspoon ginger
  • ½ teaspoon garlic
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • ¾ teaspoon chile powder
  • ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 3 medium tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons cashew butter
  • 8 ounces green peas
  • 3 tablespoons heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon garam masala

Step 1

¼ cup ghee or neutral oil

½ pound paneer or extra-firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes and patted very dry

Heat ghee in a large frying pan or medium wok on high for 30 seconds, or until it is melted. Lower heat to medium and lightly fry paneer or tofu cubes, turning frequently, until they are golden on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside on a plate lined with a paper towel.

Step 2

1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

½ teaspoon ginger paste or freshly grated ginger

½ teaspoon garlic paste or freshly grated garlic

In the same frying pan or wok, add onion, ginger and garlic, and cook on medium, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes or until onions are translucent.

Step 3

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

¾ teaspoon kashmiri or other red chile powder

¼ teaspoon turmeric powder

3 medium plum tomatoes, finely chopped

1 teaspoon fine sea salt

Add cumin seeds, chile powder and turmeric, and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir in tomatoes and salt. Add ¾ cup water. Simmer on medium until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 4

2 tablespoons cashew butter

8 ounces frozen (no need to thaw) or fresh green peas (about 1¾ cups)

3 tablespoons heavy cream or cashew cream (optional)

½ teaspoon garam masala

Lower the heat to medium-low, and stir in cashew butter. Add peas and paneer. Stir to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes or until it reaches your desired thickness. Top with heavy cream in a swirl, if you like. Sprinkle with garam masala. Serve with rice or roti.