There’s something incredibly enticing about the smoky aroma and robust flavours of Dhaba style food. While a roadside Dhaba experience is unique, you can absolutely recreate that magic right in your own kitchen! Today, we’re diving into a classic – Dhaba Style Matar Paneer, a dish that promises a burst of flavour and a comforting warmth with every bite.
The Hero Ingredients: More Than Just Delicious
This vegetarian delight boasts a perfect blend of soft, melt-in-your-mouth Paneer and vibrant, sweet Green Peas. But did you know that these ingredients are nutritional powerhouses too?
- Paneer: A fresh cheese common in Indian cuisine, is a fantastic source of protein, calcium, and essential vitamins. Paneer nutrition is a great addition to vegetarian diets, contributing to muscle building and bone health.
- Green Peas: Often considered tiny packages of flavour, are loaded with antioxidants, fibre, and vitamins like A, C, and K. They’re known to promote gut health, boost immunity, and even regulate blood sugar levels.
Recreating the Dhaba Experience: Tips and Tricks
The secret to authentic Dhaba style cooking lies in the technique and a few key ingredients:
- Onions and Tomatoes: The base of the gravy is built on a generous amount of finely chopped onions and ripe tomatoes, caramelised to perfection for that rich, sweet flavour.
- Ginger-Garlic Paste and Green Chillies: These ingredients pack a punch! Use them generously for that characteristic Dhaba-style heat and depth of flavour.
- Spice Blend: The magic truly unfolds with the perfect blend of spices. Think turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and a touch of garam masala. This aromatic blend infuses the dish with warmth and complexity.
- Creamy Finish: While optional, a swirl of fresh cream towards the end elevates the dish, adding richness and a touch of indulgence.
Dhaba Style Matar Paneer Recipe: Let’s Get Cooking!
Ingredients:
- Paneer (cubed): 200 grams
- Green Peas (fresh or frozen): 1 cup
- Onions (finely chopped): 2 medium
- Tomatoes (finely chopped): 2 medium
- Ginger-Garlic Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Green Chillies (slit): 2-3
- Oil/Butter: 3 tablespoons
- Turmeric Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Red Chilli Powder: 1.5 teaspoons (adjust to taste)
- Coriander Powder: 1.5 teaspoons
- Cumin Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Garam Masala: ½ teaspoon
- Fresh Cream (optional): 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Coriander Leaves (chopped): for garnish
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- Sauté and Simmer: Heat oil/butter in a pan. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chillies, sauté for a minute. Then add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil separates.
- Spice It Up: Add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook for a minute until fragrant.
- Create the Gravy: Add 1 cup of water, salt, and simmer for 10 minutes for the flavours to meld.
- Add the Stars: Add the paneer cubes and green peas. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the paneer is soft and the peas are cooked through.
- The Finishing Touches: Stir in garam masala and simmer for a couple more minutes. For extra richness, add fresh cream and stir gently. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
Enjoy the Feast!
Serve your homemade Dhaba Style Matar Paneer hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice. The combination of creamy gravy, melt-in-your-mouth paneer, and sweet green peas is guaranteed to transport you straight to a bustling Dhaba, minus the wait!