| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 260 | 18g | 10g | 13g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 3g | 12g | 0.7g |
The first time I tasted Mutter Paneer with Kala Zeera, it felt like a melody of my favorite culinary memories. This dish holds a special place in my heart, as it beautifully bridges the flavors of my Caribbean upbringing and Spanish roots with the rich, aromatic spices found in Indian cuisine. The combination of creamy paneer, fresh green peas, and the robust flavor of kala zeera creates a harmony of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible.
A Symphony of Spices
What makes this dish truly extraordinary is the symphony of spices that come together in perfect harmony. The kala zeera, or black cumin seeds, play a starring role, imparting a unique earthy and nutty flavor that’s quite different from regular cumin. When combined with turmeric, garam masala, and coriander, the result is a complex and deeply satisfying taste experience. The heavy cream adds a level of richness that brings everything together, making each bite a delightful adventure.
A Nutritional Powerhouse
Not only is Mutter Paneer with Kala Zeera a treat for the senses, but it also comes with several health benefits. Paneer is a fantastic source of protein and calcium, which are essential for muscle and bone health. Green peas are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to any diet. Kala zeera, known for its digestion-boosting properties, helps to balance the richness of the dish, ensuring that it’s both indulgent and wholesome.
Perfect Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it a versatile star in any meal. Serve it alongside some fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal. If you’re looking to keep things on the healthier side, you could pair it with a quinoa salad or a simple cucumber raita. In many ways, it reminds me of Spanish sofrito or even the rich, comforting stews of my Caribbean heritage, making it a dish that feels both familiar and exotic.
If you’re as enchanted by spices and flavors as I am, Mutter Paneer with Kala Zeera is a must-try recipe. It’s a celebration of culinary traditions and a testament to how beautifully different cuisines can come together on a single plate. Try it out and let your taste buds take a trip around the world.
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 cups paneer, cubed
- 1 cup green peas, fresh or frozen
- 2 tablespoons kala zeera (black cumin seeds)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 large tomatoes, pureed
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (optional for heat)
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Method
Step One
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the kala zeera (black cumin seeds) and let them sizzle for a few seconds until they become fragrant.
Step Two
Add the finely chopped onion to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Step Three
Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the raw smell disappears.
Step Four
Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil starts to separate from the masala.
Step Five
Add the ground turmeric, ground cumin, ground coriander, garam masala, and red chili powder (if using). Stir well to combine the spices with the tomato mixture.
Step Six
Add the green peas to the masala and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step Seven
Gently fold in the paneer cubes, making sure they are well coated with the masala. Cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step Eight
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to incorporate. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the curry becomes creamy and heated through.
Step Nine
Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan.
