Aloo Matar Paneer Curry Recipe: A Protein-Packed Delight
Aloo Matar Paneer Curry is a flavorful North Indian dish that takes the traditional aloo matar curry up a notch by adding paneer cubes. The addition of paneer not only enhances the taste but also makes the dish a rich source of protein, perfect for a wholesome lunch. The combination of soft paneer, tender potatoes, and green peas cooked in a mildly spiced tomato-based gravy is sure to be a family favorite.
Pair this dish with Tawa Parathas, Phulkas, or a refreshing side of Mooli Raita to create a complete, satisfying meal.
Recipe Details
| Course | Cuisine | Diet | Prep Time | Cook Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lunch | North Indian | Vegetarian | 10 minutes | 45 minutes |
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese), cubed | 500 grams |
| Potatoes (Aloo), boiled and diced | 2 medium-sized |
| Green peas (Matar), steamed | ½ cup |
| Homemade tomato puree | 1 cup |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | ½ teaspoon |
| Green chillies, slit | 2 |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | ½ teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | ½ teaspoon |
| Red Chilli powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh cream | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | For cooking |
To Grind
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Garlic cloves | 3 |
| Ginger, peeled | 1-inch piece |
| Homemade tomato puree | 1 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Vitamin A | 650 IU |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Calcium | 220 mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Onion-Ginger-Garlic Paste
- Begin by grinding the finely chopped onion, garlic cloves, ginger, and one cup of tomato puree into a smooth paste. Set this aside for later use.
-
Sauté the Base Spices
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a heavy-bottomed pan. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle until aromatic.
- Stir in the prepared onion-ginger-garlic paste and sauté over low heat until the mixture turns golden brown and the raw aroma disappears.
-
Cook the Tomato Gravy
- Add the homemade tomato puree, green chillies, turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Mix everything well.
- Let this tomato-based mixture cook on medium heat until it thickens and the oil starts to separate from the gravy.
-
Add Potatoes and Paneer
- Once the gravy is ready, gently add the boiled potato cubes and paneer pieces. Stir carefully to coat them evenly with the gravy.
- Pour in one cup of water and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 15 minutes.
-
Add Green Peas and Final Touches
- During the last three minutes of cooking, stir in the steamed green peas. This will retain their vibrant color and texture.
- Add the kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) by crushing them slightly between your palms to release their flavor.
- Stir in the fresh cream to give the curry a rich and creamy finish.
-
Adjust and Serve
- Taste the curry and adjust the salt and spice levels as per your preference.
- Serve the piping hot Aloo Matar Paneer Curry with Tawa Parathas, Phulkas, or a refreshing side of Mooli Raita for a delightful meal.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Curry
- Paneer Texture: For a softer paneer, soak the cubes in warm water for 10 minutes before adding them to the curry.
- Tomato Puree: Homemade puree enhances the taste, but you can use store-bought puree for convenience.
- Kasuri Methi: Always crush kasuri methi between your palms before adding it to release its aroma.
Serving Suggestions
- With Flatbreads: Serve with Tawa Paratha, Phulka, or Butter Naan for a classic North Indian pairing.
- With Rice: Pair it with Jeera Rice or Plain Steamed Rice to enjoy the flavorful curry.
- Side Dish Options: Complement the curry with Boondi Raita, Mooli Raita, or a fresh Cucumber Salad for added texture and taste.
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Aloo Matar Paneer Curry Recipe that is perfect for everyday meals or even special occasions. Its creamy and mildly spiced profile is sure to win hearts around the table!
