Mattar Paneer

Mattar Paneer is a dish made from peas and paneer, which is an unripened fresh cheese. You can find paneer at most Indian grocery stores as well as at some larger grocery retailers such as Costco.

450g Indian paneer
2-3 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)
2 tbsp Jaswant’s Kitchen Tadka Masala (divided)
1 tbsp canola or vegetable oil
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp tomato paste
¼ cup cilantro (chopped)
1/2 tsp Jaswant's Kitchen Garam Masala
1 tsp kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves - optional)
2 cups water
Heavy cream (optional to taste)

Cut the paneer into ¾ inch cubes and toss with 1 tbsp Jaswant's Kitchen Tadka Masala and set aside.

Heat a heavy based pot on medium heat. Add ¼ cup water to the pot and mix in 1 tbsp Jaswant's Kitchen Tadka Masala, salt and oil. Stir until mixture starts to bubble, add tomato paste and mix well. If mixture starts to dry up add water as needed. Add peas and mix well into masala mixture. If using fresh peas cook for 5 minutes and if using frozen peas cook until they thaw. Add paneer and cook until mixture is hot. Add 1-2 cups water according to the desired consistency. Bring mixture to a boil, lower heat and simmer covered or place in a preheated oven (350°F) for 20 minutes.

Season with additional salt to taste. Finish with Jaswant's Kitchen Garam Masala, cilantro, kasoori methi and cream (if using). Serve over rice or with naan/chapatti.

Optional: Traditionally the paneer cubes are pan-fried separately until golden before adding to the masala.

Makes 5-6 servings.
Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 20 min