Matar paneer masala - Maharashtrian green peas sabzi

Matar paneer masala recipe - Fresh green peas paneer masala, prepared in coconut based spicy masala is an excellent side dish for roti and chapathi. It is also a tasty accompaniment for steamed rice as well. Fresh green peas are not only tasty but they are nutritious too. There are 2-3 varieties of fresh green peas available in the market. Whenever possible buy the sweeter variety of green peas which is very good in taste. It can be stored in the fridge for about 2-3 months.

Matar Paneer Masala Recipe

Prep time : 10 mins

Cook time : 10 mins

Total time : 20 mins

Recipe type : Side Dish

Cuisine : Karnataka

Yield : Serves 2

Author : Vidya Chandrahas

Ingredients

• 2 large onions, chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup green peas
• ½ cup grated paneer
• ½ tsp kala masala
• ½ tsp chili powder
• Few chopped coriander leaves
• 2 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste

Grind to paste

• ¼ cup coconut
• 3 garlic flakes
• 1/6 " ginger
• 1cloves /  lavang, fried
• 1/6" cinnamon sticks, fried
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp coriander seeds, slightly roasted
• ½ tsp turmeric powder

Method

1. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds in it. When they splutter, add curry leaves and onions. 
2. Fry the onion till it changes the colour. Add kala masala or garam masala, ½ tsp chili powder, turmeric powder, saute for a while.
3. Add tomatoes and mix well. Cover with lid and cook it on a low flame till the tomato turns soft.
4. Add boiled green peas and mix well.  Add grated paneer and saute for 2-3 mins.
5. Put all the ingredients mentioned under  grind to paste in a mixer.Make a smooth paste, using very little water.
6. Add the masala paste along with half cup of water and salt to the paneer peas mixture to make a thick gravy.  
7. Mix well and bring it to boil.  Cover it with lid, cook the peas masala on medium low flame for 3-4 minutes.
8. Simmer till you get the desired consistency. When it is done, add chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with roti, chapati or  steamed rice.