Khoya Matar Paneer
Khoya refers to solid milkMatar is peasPaneer is Indian cottage cheese
We Indians love paneer and every vegetarian feast often includes at least one paneer dish. Any chicken or mutton dish can be made vegetarian by adding paneer as the protein substitute. Matar Paneer is one of the most famous North Indian curry and prepared in every household. It’s the simplest way to prepare paneer and often a go to on busy weekdays. A great way to incorporate vegetable and protein in one curry.
What is Khoya?
Khoya is a dairy product and a very popular ingredient used in Indian dishes. Especially in desserts. It is prepared by simmering whole milk for hours until, it thickens up and turns almost into a crumbly dough like consistency. You can find khoya in Indian stores as solid milk, found in frozen aisle. Khoya is left unsweetened which makes it excellent to be used in either savory or sweet dishes . It adds a luscious richness when added to either a dessert or a savory dish like this Khoya Matar Paneer. Matar Paneer is our any day paneer curry and most often I make it a quick one pot curry. But with Khoya Matar Paneer, I like to take a small extra step. It’s still quick and ready in just 30 minutes.
Steps to prepare Khoya Matar Paneer:
Start by slicing the paneer block into bite size rectangles or triangles. Now most days I don’t fry the paneer but this time I did. So, just marinate it with little salt and turmeric.The fried paneer are kept aside to be used later.In a heavy bottom pan or skillet, sauté the ginger, garlic, onion and tomato with the spices. (Read the detailed recipe below and watch the video)Once it cooked, then blend it to a thick consistency without adding any water. You are not making a puree here. This step is optional, but it sure does gives a creamy texture to the gravy and adds a lovely orange hue.The second part of cooking happens on a hot wok with ghee. Add the cooked onion and tomato paste along with some whole spices. Then add the khoya and cook for some more time.Pour water, the fried paneer, frozen or fresh peas and simmer for some time.Sprinkle garam masala for that boost of aroma and then add chopped cilantro.Give it a stir, check for salt and add any if needed.Finally drizzle some heavy cream and enjoy the curry warm.
I like to serve the paneer curry with some khoya grated on top and a drizzle of heavy cream for that extra lusciousness.
OTHER PANEER DISHES TO TRY!
