Mattar paneer Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids
Mattar paneer
A dish of Mattar paneer with the main ingredients
Alternative names	matar paneer, mutter paneer
Place of origin	India
Region or state	North India
Main ingredients	Paneer, peas, tomato based sauce, garam masala spice mix

Mattar paneer (Hindi: मटर पनीर) is a super popular and tasty vegetarian dish from North India. It's also known as matar paneer or mutter paneer. This dish is made with soft paneer (a type of Indian cheese) and green peas. These ingredients are cooked in a rich, creamy sauce made mostly from tomatoes. The sauce gets its amazing flavor from a special mix of spices called garam masala.

Mattar paneer is a favorite in many Indian restaurants. People often eat it with different kinds of Indian bread like naan, paratha, poori, or roti. It also tastes great with plain or flavored rice. Sometimes, other ingredients like potatoes (aloo), corn, or even yogurt or cream are added to make it even richer.

What is Mattar Paneer?
- The Main Ingredients
- How it is Made
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What is Mattar Paneer?

Mattar paneer is a classic dish that combines two main ingredients: 'mattar' which means peas and 'paneer' which is a fresh, non-melting cheese. This cheese is very common in Indian cooking. The dish is known for its bright colors and comforting flavors. It's a great example of how simple ingredients can make a delicious meal.

The Main Ingredients

The heart of mattar paneer lies in its key ingredients.

Paneer: This is a type of cheese made from curdled milk. It's soft and doesn't melt easily, so it holds its shape well in curries. Paneer is a great source of protein for vegetarians.
Peas: Green peas add a touch of sweetness and a nice texture to the dish. They are often fresh or frozen.
Tomato-based sauce: The sauce is made from fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and ginger. These are cooked down to create a thick, flavorful base.
Garam masala: This is a special blend of ground spices. It usually includes cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and black pepper. Garam masala gives the dish its signature warm and aromatic taste.

How it is Made

Making mattar paneer involves a few simple steps. First, the onions, garlic, and ginger are cooked until soft. Then, chopped tomatoes are added and cooked until they break down into a thick paste. Next, the spices, especially garam masala, are stirred in. Finally, the peas and cubes of paneer are added to the sauce. They are simmered gently until everything is cooked through and the flavors have blended together. Some recipes might add a little cream or cashew paste to make the sauce extra rich and smooth.