Paneer Mutter Masala, a beloved North Indian dish, is a symphony of creamy textures and vibrant flavors. This comforting vegetarian curry features soft, melt-in-your-mouth paneer (Indian cheese) simmered in a rich, tomato-based gravy with tender green peas. The fragrant blend of spices, including turmeric, coriander, and garam masala, creates a depth of flavor that's both warming and utterly delicious. It's a dish that's perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion, equally satisfying served with fluffy naan bread, fragrant basmati rice, or even roti.
The creamy, subtly spiced sauce clings beautifully to the paneer and peas, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Ready to embark on a flavorful journey and create this masterpiece in your own kitchen? Let's dive into the step-by-step guide to making the perfect Paneer Mutter Masala.
Tools Needed
- Frying pan
- Mixer jar
- Pot
Ingredients
- Paneer
- Green peas (fresh or frozen)
- Coconut oil
- Salt
- Turmeric powder
- Shallots
- Garlic
- Butter
- Cumin seeds: 1/4 teaspoon
- Bay leaf: 1 small piece
- Cloves: 2
- Ginger: 1 small piece
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
- Kashmiri chili powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Garam masala: 1/2 teaspoon
- Coriander powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Tomato paste: 2 teaspoons
- Water
- Cooking cream: 3 teaspoons
- Kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Coriander leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Preparing the Ingredients and Base
- Fry paneer cubes in coconut oil. Boil green peas with salt and turmeric powder.
- In the same pan, sauté sliced shallots and garlic with salt until softened. Set aside to cool.
- Blend the sautéed shallots and garlic with water to a smooth paste.
- In the same pan, melt butter. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, and ginger. Sauté until fragrant.
Step 2. Building the Flavorful Gravy
- Add the onion-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell is gone.
- Add turmeric powder, chili powder, Kashmiri chili powder, garam masala, and coriander powder. Sauté until fragrant.
- Add tomato paste and sauté well. Add water to create a gravy, adjust salt to taste.
- Add the cooked green peas and mix well.
Step 3. Combining and Simmering
- Add the fried paneer cubes and mix. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Add cooking cream, kasoori methi, and coriander leaves. Stir gently.
Step 4. Finishing and Serving
- Add a small piece of butter at the end for extra flavor.
- Serve hot with chapatis, fried rice, or batura.
Read more: Creamy Cashew Chicken Curry: A Simple Yet Sumptuous Recipe
Tips
- Use fresh or frozen green peas.
- Don't overcook the shallots and garlic.
- Kashmiri chili powder adds color without much heat.
- If you don't have tomato paste, blend boiled tomatoes.
- Keep the flame low when adding the cooking cream.
- Cooking cream provides a creamy texture, avoid coconut milk.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 450-550
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbs: 25-35g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. Can I make Paneer Mutter Masala ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors actually deepen overnight. Make it a day ahead and reheat gently before serving.
2. What can I substitute for paneer?
Tofu is a good vegetarian substitute, but it won't have the exact same texture. Chicken or other firm meats can also be used.
So there you have it – your very own delicious Creamy Paneer Mutter Masala! Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for sharing with loved ones. From prep to plate, this recipe brings the vibrant tastes of India to your kitchen.