Authentic Dhaba-Style Matar Paneer Recipe

45 minutes

899 reads

4 from 5 votes

About Authentic Dhaba-Style Matar Paneer Recipe

Indulge in the rich, aromatic flavors of Dhaba-style Matar Paneer, a cherished family recipe passed down through generations. This classic Indian dish features tender paneer cheese and sweet green peas in a luscious, flavorful gravy, reminiscent of the comforting meals enjoyed during family gatherings and festive celebrations.
My mother's secret to this exceptional Matar Paneer lies in the carefully crafted onion, ginger, and garlic-based gravy. It's a heartwarming taste of home, transporting you to the bustling kitchens of traditional Indian dhabas.
This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to recreating this authentic dish, allowing you to savor the same delicious flavors in your own kitchen. Get ready for a culinary journey filled with warmth and tradition!
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Recipe Time & More

Prep30 minutes
Cook15 minutes
Total45 minutes
Calories177 kcal
Serves4

Ingredients
 

For the Paneer

  • 200 gm Cottage Cheese indian cottage cheese. can be substituted with firm tofu for a vegan option.
  • 2 tbsp Mustard Oil for frying the paneer

For the Spice Paste

For the Gravy

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Instructions
 

Prepare the Spice Paste

  • Soak poppy seeds in warm water for 30 minutes. Peel and finely chop the onion, ginger, and garlic. Finely chop the tomato. Combine the soaked poppy seeds, onion, ginger, garlic, cardamom pods, mace, cinnamon, peppercorns, and cloves in a blender. Blend into a smooth paste.

Fry the Paneer

  • Heat mustard oil in a wok or large skillet. Add paneer cubes and fry for 10-15 seconds per side until lightly browned. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Cook the Gravy

  • Heat vegetable oil in a pressure cooker. Add bay leaves and the prepared spice paste. Cook over medium heat for 3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Add Tomatoes and Spices

  • Add the chopped tomatoes and red chili powder. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes.

Build the Flavor

  • Stir in turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook on low to medium heat until the masala begins to leave the sides of the pan.

Add Peas and Paneer

  • Add the green peas. Mix well and cook for 3 minutes on medium heat. Add the fried paneer cubes.

Pressure Cook

  • Add 2 cups of water. Cover the pressure cooker and cook on high heat until one whistle. Reduce heat to low and cook until a second whistle.

Finish and Serve

  • Allow the pressure to release naturally. Open the lid and stir in the garam masala and fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with roti or rice.

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for the Best Dhaba-Style Matar Paneer

  • For an extra rich flavor, sauté the spice paste until it turns a deep reddish-brown color.
  • Don't overcrowd the pan when frying the paneer; fry in batches to ensure even browning.
  • Adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice preference.
  • For a creamier gravy, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or coconut cream at the end.
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4 from 5 votes

Recipe Nutrition

Calories: 177kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 9gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 9mgSodium: 1037mgPotassium: 315mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 752IUVitamin C: 23mgCalcium: 94mgIron: 1mg

Tanu Nigam
Tanu Nigam
Articles: 81
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