Paneer Curry with Peas
Paneer, a fresh, mild Indian cheese, stands in for the meat in this delicious vegetarian main course. When you are shopping for the peas, look for fresh shelling peas (sometimes called English peas) that have vibrant green pods full of small round peas. Larger peas are sometimes starchy instead of sweet and crisp.
Paneer, a fresh, mild Indian cheese, stands in for the meat in this delicious vegetarian main course. When you are shopping for the peas, look for fresh shelling peas (sometimes called English peas) that have vibrant green pods full of small round peas. Larger peas are sometimes starchy instead of sweet and crisp.
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground coriander
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 pound paneer or firm or extra-firm tofu, cut into 3/4-
- 5 tablespoons usli ghee divided
- 1 large onion, cut into 1- to 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons minced peeled fresh ginger
- 1 serrano chile minced with seeds
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes with added purã©e
- 1 1/2 cups shelled fresh peas (from about 1 1/2 pounds peas i thawed
- steamed basmati rice
- paneer a fresh cow's milk or buffalo's-milk cheese, and usli ghee (cla
- garam masala is a curry spice blend that's availa at indian markets, and from thespicehouse.com.
- Carbohydrate 3.45902625358547 g
- Cholesterol 25.4416666666667 mg
- Fat 9.77627840656483 g
- Fiber 0.434337683764847 g
- Protein 0.766522052686285 g
- Saturated Fat 6.09764237051167 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (121g)
- Sodium 6.98141883265103 mg
- Sugar 3.02468856982063 g
- Trans Fat 0.719360272846085 g
- Calories 102 calories
Step-by-step
- Place flour in medium bowl. Add paneer to bowl; toss to coat with flour.
- Heat 2 tablespoons ghee in heavy large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Shake excess flour from paneer; add to skillet and cook until browned in spots, turning occasionally, about 4 minutes.
- Transfer paneer to plate; set aside. Reserve skillet.
- Place onion pieces in processor. Using on/off turns, process until finely chopped but not watery.
- Heat remaining 3 tablespoons ghee in reserved skillet over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and stir until aromatic, about 1 minute.
- Add chopped onion and cook until beginning to brown, stirring often, about 10 minutes.
- Add minced ginger, minced garlic, ground coriander, and minced serrano chile with seeds; stir 1 minute.
- Add crushed tomatoes with puree, 1/2 cup water, and turmeric; bring to simmer.
- Reduce heat to medium low; cover and simmer until mixture thickens slightly and flavors blend, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes.
- Add shelled fresh peas and cooked paneer; gently fold to incorporate evenly.
- Cook mixture over medium-low heat until peas are tender and paneer is heated through, folding occasionally, about 5 minutes.
- Fold in garam masala and cilantro.
- Season curry to taste with salt and pepper.
- Serve with steamed basmati rice.
A Taste of Home: My Simple Paneer Curry
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can feel like a Herculean task. But I’ve learned that even amidst the chaos of work deadlines and school pick-ups, a little bit of planning and a few simple recipes can make all the difference. This Paneer Curry with Peas is one of those recipes – quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. It's a dish that consistently satisfies my family, offering a comforting taste of home without demanding hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that's ready in under 30 minutes, but it's also elegant enough to serve to guests. The creamy paneer, the vibrant green peas, and the fragrant spices create a symphony of flavors that’s both familiar and exciting. And the best part? It’s incredibly adaptable. You can adjust the spice level to your preference, add other vegetables like spinach or potatoes, or even swap out the peas for other seasonal favorites. The possibilities are endless!
I remember first learning to make this curry from my grandmother. Her kitchen was always filled with the warm aroma of spices, and watching her work her magic was a childhood highlight. She taught me the importance of fresh ingredients – using high-quality paneer and perfectly ripe tomatoes makes a world of difference. And she emphasized the importance of letting the flavors meld together, allowing the spices to sing in harmony. That slow simmering, that gentle blending of flavors, is where the true magic of this curry lies.
This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a connection to my heritage, a reminder of simpler times, and a testament to the power of good food to bring people together. It’s a recipe I’ve shared with friends and family, and one that’s been passed down through generations in my family. It’s a taste of home, wherever home may be.
Beyond the personal connection, this Paneer Curry with Peas is also a fantastically healthy option. Packed with protein from the paneer and fiber from the peas, it's a complete meal that keeps you feeling full and energized throughout the day. It's a perfect example of how nutritious and delicious food can coexist, proving that healthy eating doesn't have to mean bland and boring.
I often serve this curry with steamed basmati rice, a classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of the dish. But feel free to experiment! Naan bread, roti, or even quinoa would make equally delicious accompaniments. The key is to let your creativity guide you and enjoy the process of creating something delicious and nourishing.
So, the next time you're looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful meal, give this Paneer Curry with Peas a try. It's a recipe that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen, bringing a taste of home and a touch of warmth to your table. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an experience.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped green chilies for extra heat.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, potatoes, or carrots for a more substantial meal.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of coconut milk or cream at the end for a richer, creamier curry.
- Adjust the consistency: Add more water for a thinner curry or simmer longer for a thicker sauce.
- Garnish generously: Fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of garam masala make beautiful and flavorful garnishes.
This recipe is a testament to the simplicity and power of good food. It's a reminder that even the busiest of lives can accommodate delicious, healthy, and fulfilling meals. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of warm spices fill your kitchen. You're in for a treat!
