Amazing Peas (indian)

🌱 Amazing Peas (Indian) 🌱

Amazing Peas, often referred to as “Matar Paneer” in India, is a delightful and popular North Indian dish that combines fresh green peas with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a rich and flavorful tomato-based gravy. It’s a vegetarian favorite known for its balance of sweet and savory flavors. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what Amazing Peas (Matar Paneer) is, its history, components, preparation steps, and cooking time:

📜 History:
Matar Paneer has a rich culinary heritage in India. It’s believed to have originated in North India, particularly in the Punjab region. This dish has been enjoyed for generations, and it’s a staple in many Indian households and restaurants around the world.

🍽️ Components:

• Green Peas: Fresh or frozen green peas are used to add sweetness and color to the dish.
• Paneer: Paneer is a fresh cheese commonly used in Indian cuisine. It provides a creamy and chewy texture.
• Tomato-Based Gravy: The gravy is made from a blend of tomatoes, onions, and various spices. This forms the base of the dish and adds depth of flavor.
• Spices: Common spices include cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala, and chili powder, among others.
• Cream: Some recipes include cream or yogurt to make the gravy rich and creamy.
• Herbs: Fresh cilantro leaves are often used for garnish.

👩‍🍳 Steps to Prepare Amazing Peas (Matar Paneer):

1. Preparation:

   • Dice the paneer into cubes.
   • If using fresh peas, shell them. If using frozen peas, thaw them.

2. Making the Tomato Base:

   • Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter.
   • Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
   • Add ginger-garlic paste and cook until the raw smell disappears.
   • Add tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the mixture.
   • Add spices like turmeric, coriander, cumin, and chili powder, and cook for a few minutes.

3. Creating the Gravy:

   • Add water to achieve the desired consistency.
   • Stir in cream or yogurt if desired for a creamy texture.
   • Add the green peas and paneer cubes.
   • Simmer until the peas and paneer are cooked through.

4. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves.
   • Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

🕒 Cooking Time:
The preparation and cooking time for Amazing Peas (Matar Paneer) usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. This can vary depending on your cooking skills and whether you’re using fresh or frozen ingredients.

This delicious Indian dish is loved for its aromatic spices, creamy gravy, and the contrast between the sweetness of peas and the richness of paneer. It’s a delightful addition to any Indian meal and is sure to satisfy your taste buds! 😊🍽️🇮🇳

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Amazing Peas (Matar Paneer):

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: 300-400 calories
• Protein: 10-15 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 5-8 grams
• Sugars: 5-7 grams
• Cholesterol: 20-30 milligrams
• Sodium: 500-700 milligrams
• Vitamin A: 10-15% of daily recommended intake
• Vitamin C: 20-30% of daily recommended intake
• Calcium: 20-25% of daily recommended intake
• Iron: 10-15% of daily recommended intake

Health Information:

1. Protein: Matar Paneer is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function.

2. Fiber: The dish contains dietary fiber from the peas and tomatoes, which can aid in digestion and help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

3. Vitamins and Minerals: It provides vitamins like A and C for skin and immune health, as well as calcium and iron for bone health and oxygen transport in the blood.

4. Moderate Calories: The calorie content can vary depending on the recipe and portion size. It’s generally considered a moderately calorie-dense dish.

5. Healthy Fats: While it does contain fats from the cream, paneer, and oil, these can be part of a balanced diet. The fats from paneer are primarily saturated, so it’s best consumed in moderation.

6. Low Sugar: Matar Paneer typically contains low levels of added sugars, making it a good choice for those watching their sugar intake.

7. Sodium: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you’re on a low-sodium diet. Adjust the salt to your preference.

8. Vegetarian Option: This dish is suitable for vegetarians and can be a valuable source of protein in a vegetarian diet.

Remember that specific nutritional values may vary based on the recipe and ingredients used. To get precise nutritional information, it’s advisable to use a nutrition calculator or consult food packaging labels when available. Enjoy Matar Paneer in moderation as part of a balanced diet for a tasty and nutritious meal! 🍽️🥦🧀