Introduction
Paneer with peas is a delightful Indian vegetarian dish that’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and comforting. Imagine a fragrant mix of creamy paneer cubes swimming in a rich, mildly spiced tomato-based sauce, all dotted with vibrant green peas. The combination of the paneer’s melt-in-your-mouth texture with the fresh peas creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is both satisfying and aromatic. This dish works wonderfully as an appetizer or can be enjoyed alongside some warm naan for a hearty main course.
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Paneer with Peas
This creamy paneer dish is a harmonious blend of melt-in-your-mouth paneer and vibrant green peas, cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with fragrant spices. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a main course with naan bread.
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
✓ 2 cups crumbled paneer
✓ 3 medium onions, finely chopped
✓ 4 tomatoes, chopped
✓ 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
✓ 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
✓ 1 teaspoon coriander powder
✓ 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
✓ 1 teaspoon garam masala
✓ Salt to taste
✓ 2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
✓ 1/2 cup vegetable oil
✓ 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
✓ 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
✓ 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth (for adjusting consistency)
Instructions
✓ Start by cutting the paneer into bite-sized cubes and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle some salt over the cubes to enhance their flavor.
✓ Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the green peas, and cook for 2 minutes or until just tender. Drain and set aside.
✓ Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
✓ Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until it turns golden brown and translucent.
✓ Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook on medium heat for 5 minutes or until they start breaking down, creating a smooth sauce.
✓ Mix in the ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, garam masala, salt to taste, and green chilies (if using). Stir well to combine.
✓ Gently fold in the paneer cubes and cooked peas into the tomato mixture. Cook for 5 minutes or until the paneer is heated through.
✓ If you prefer a thicker gravy, add 1/2 cup of water or vegetable broth to adjust the consistency. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
✓ Once everything is well combined and cooked, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
Ensure the paneer is at room temperature to maintain its texture. Do not overcook the peas to preserve their color and freshness. Adjust spice levels according to personal preference.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 15
Key Ingredients
- Paneer — gives the base its creamy texture; must be room temperature
- Green Peas — adds a burst of freshness and color; frozen works if thawed and drained
- Tomatoes — contributes acidity and sweetness to balance the spiciness
- Onion — provides a savory foundation for the dish, enhancing depth of flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare the Paneer: Start by cutting the paneer into bite-sized cubes and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle some salt over the cubes to enhance their flavor.
- Blanch the Peas: Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the green peas, and cook for 2 minutes or until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
- Heat Oil: In a large pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add Onions: Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it turns golden brown and translucent.
- Cook Tomatoes: Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook on medium heat for 5 minutes or until they start breaking down, creating a smooth sauce.
- Seasoning: Mix in the ginger-garlic paste, turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, garam masala, salt to taste, and green chilies (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Add Paneer and Peas: Gently fold in the paneer cubes and cooked peas into the tomato mixture. Cook for 5 minutes or until the paneer is heated through.
Assembly
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker gravy, add 1/2 cup of water or vegetable broth to adjust the consistency. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Once everything is well combined and cooked, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
Serving
Serve this paneer with peas hot over steamed rice or as an appetizer with naan bread on the side. The dish pairs exceptionally well with a sprinkle of chaat masala or even a dollop of yogurt for added richness and tanginess.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Paneer with peas is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that requires minimal effort to prepare but delivers big on flavor. Its creamy texture from the paneer, combined with the freshness of the green peas and the warmth of the spices, makes it an ideal choice for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress guests at a gathering, this dish is perfect.
Tips for Making Perfect Paneer with Peas
- Ensure Paneer is Room Temperature: This ensures that it cooks evenly and maintains its delicate texture.
- Do Not Overcook Peas: Just 2 minutes of blanching will preserve their vibrant color and fresh taste.
- Cook Onions Until Golden Brown: This adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
- Adjust Spices According to Taste: Feel free to tweak the spice levels based on your personal preference.
Time Details
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 350 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh ones?
A: Yes, you can use frozen peas. Just make sure to thaw them and drain before adding to the dish.
Q: How long does this paneer with peas last in the refrigerator?
A: This dish should be consumed within 2 days after preparation. For best results, serve it fresh.
Q: Can I add more vegetables for variety?
A: Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, carrots, or any other vegetables that you have on hand to make this dish even more nutritious and flavorful.
Conclusion
Paneer with peas is a simple yet satisfying recipe that is perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and festive gatherings. Its creamy texture and rich flavors are sure to be enjoyed by all. Give it a try, and see how easily you can whip up a delicious vegetarian meal at home!
