Paneer Matar Keema Recipe: A Hearty North Indian Delight
Paneer Matar Keema is a vibrant and flavorful North Indian dish that beautifully combines the richness of crumbled paneer with the freshness of green peas, creating a delightful vegetarian alternative to traditional meat keema. This dish is not only simple to prepare but is also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome family meal. Pair it with soft phulkas or rice and a side of raita for a complete culinary experience.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green peas (Matar) | 1 cup (boiled and slightly mashed) |
| Potato (Aloo) | 1 (boiled and mashed) |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese) | 1/2 cup (crumbled) |
| Tomato | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Homemade tomato puree | 1/4 cup |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (hing) | 1 pinch |
| Onion | 1 (finely chopped) |
| Ginger garlic paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander (Dhania) leaves | A few sprigs |
| Red chilli powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sunflower oil | As required |
| Salt | To taste |
| Water | As required |
Nutritional Information Table (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 220-250 kcal |
| Protein | 12-15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20-25 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4-5 g |
| Fat | 10-12 g |
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 35 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Servings: 5
Cuisine
- Type: North Indian Recipes
- Course: Lunch
- Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions Table
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by heating sunflower oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and asafoetida, allowing them to splutter and release their aromas. |
| 2 | Once the mustard seeds have spluttered, add the finely chopped onions. Sauté them until they turn soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. |
| 3 | Next, incorporate the ginger garlic paste into the pan and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent it from sticking. |
| 4 | Add the finely chopped tomatoes along with the homemade tomato puree. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. |
| 5 | Once the tomatoes have softened, sprinkle in the spices: red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Stir well and let it cook for another 5 minutes. |
| 6 | Gently fold in the mashed potato and crumbled paneer. Add 1/4 cup of water to the mixture, stirring everything together. Allow it to cook for 6 to 8 minutes. |
| 7 | After 6 to 8 minutes, add the boiled green peas and mix well. Cover the pan once more and let the mixture simmer for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. |
| 8 | Once cooked, garnish the Paneer Matar Keema with fresh coriander leaves and serve it hot. For an enjoyable meal, accompany it with Dal Palak, Lauki Raita, and soft phulkas. |
Serving Suggestions
The Paneer Matar Keema pairs wonderfully with various side dishes, enhancing your dining experience. Consider serving it with:
- Dal Palak: A nutritious lentil dish enriched with spinach, complementing the flavors of the keema.
- Lauki Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side that balances the spices in the keema.
- Phulka: Soft Indian flatbreads perfect for scooping up the hearty keema.
Conclusion
Paneer Matar Keema is not just a dish; it’s a delightful culinary experience that brings comfort and warmth to your table. This recipe is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, especially on a busy weeknight when you crave something nutritious yet effortless to prepare. The combination of paneer and green peas, along with aromatic spices, guarantees a flavorful meal that your family will love.
Tips for Perfection
- Paneer Quality: For the best taste, use fresh homemade paneer, which has a creamier texture compared to store-bought options.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of red chilli powder according to your spice preference, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys their meal.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving to maintain its flavors and textures.
Try this Paneer Matar Keema recipe today and enjoy a hearty and fulfilling meal that captures the essence of North Indian cuisine. Enjoy the love and warmth of cooking, and savor every bite with your loved ones!
