Paneer Matar Pulao

Servings: 5 Total Time: 50 mins Difficulty: Beginner
Paneer Matar Pulao pinit

Hey everyone! So glad to have you here. Let me take you through a recipe that’s close to my heart – the delicious and flavorful Paneer Matar Pulao

It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for those days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. I’ve made this for countless family gatherings, and it’s always a hit. 

Plus, it’s one of those dishes that doesn’t require too much work – you just throw everything together, and magic happens!

Now, let’s get started with this easy and tasty recipe. Trust me, you’re going to love it.

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 50 mins
Servings: 5 Calories: 500
Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

Cooking Mode Disabled

Instructions

Prep Work

  1. Wash and Soak Rice

    Wash the basmati rice well and soak it in water for about 30 minutes and set it aside.

  2. Cut Paneer

    Cut the paneer into medium-sized cubes and place them in a bowl.

  3. Marinate Paneer

    Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt to coat the paneer. Mix it well. Let it sit for 5 minutes.

  4. Slice Onions and Chilies

    Slice the onions and slit the green chilies.

Method

  1. Roast Paneer

    In a pan, add ghee and gently roast the marinated paneer pieces on all sides until they’re lightly golden. Set them aside.

  2. Sauté Spices

    In a pressure cooker, heat ghee and oil. Toss in the whole spices (cinnamon, clove, cardamom, star anise, and mace), cumin seeds, and bay leaves. Let them sizzle for a few seconds.

  3. Sauté Onions and Chilies

    Add the sliced onions and green chilies, and sauté until the onions become transparent.

  4. Add Ginger-Garlic Paste & Tomatoes

    Add ginger garlic paste and sauté for a minute before adding the finely chopped tomatoes. Stir well.

  5. Add Spices and Curd

    Mix in the whisked curd, chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook for another minute.

  6. Add Fresh Peas, Mint, and Coriander

    Now, add the fresh peas, mint leaves, and coriander leaves. Stir everything together.

  7. Add Roasted Paneer

    Gently add the roasted paneer pieces, mixing carefully.

  8. Add Rice and Water

    Drop in the soaked basmati rice, and then pour in water. Mix everything gently, being careful not to break the rice.

  9. Pressure Cook

    Close the lid of the pressure cooker, and cook for 1 whistle on a medium-high flame.

  10. Rest and Serve

    Let the pressure release naturally, then open the cooker to reveal the gorgeous, aromatic Paneer Matar Pulao.

  11. Fluff and Serve

    Give it a gentle fluff and serve hot with some raita on the side.

measuring cups

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Nutrition Facts

Servings 5


Amount Per Serving
Calories 500kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 22g34%
Saturated Fat 10g50%
Cholesterol 40mg14%
Sodium 600mg25%
Total Carbohydrate 60g20%
Sugars 6g
Protein 20g40%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Keywords: Paneer Matar Pulao, one-pot, delicious

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Frequently Asked Questions

Expand All:
Why should I soak basmati rice before cooking it?

Soaking rice helps to soften the grains, making them fluffier when cooked. It also reduces cooking time and ensures the grains don’t break easily.

How long should I let the paneer marinate?

Let the paneer marinate for at least 5 minutes. The spices will coat the cubes and enhance the flavor.

How can I make sure the paneer doesn’t stick to the pan?

Ensure the pan is preheated and use enough ghee to prevent the paneer from sticking. Keep flipping the pieces gently to avoid them breaking.

Can I bake the paneer instead of roasting it in a pan?

Yes, baking the paneer at 180°C for about 10 minutes will give you a similar roasted effect. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook.

Why should I sauté the onions and spices separately before adding other ingredients?

Sautéing the onions and spices brings out their full flavor and aroma, infusing the rice with rich, warm flavors. It’s key to creating a flavorful base.

Can I skip the whole spices like cinnamon and cardamom?

While you can skip them, they add a wonderful fragrance and depth to the dish. You can also try using a pre-made garam masala if you're in a hurry.

Can I skip adding tomatoes?

Tomatoes add a nice tang and balance the richness of the paneer. However, if you don’t like them, you can skip them, but the flavor may be a bit different.

How long should I cook the tomatoes for?

Cook the tomatoes until they soften and release their juices. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. You want the base to have a nice, rich consistency before adding the peas and paneer.

Is it necessary to use curd (yogurt)?

Curd adds a creamy texture and a slight tang, which balances the flavors in the pulao. If you don’t have curd, you can substitute with a bit of cream or milk.

Should I use dried herbs instead of fresh mint and coriander?

Fresh herbs provide a vibrant flavor, but if you don’t have them, dried herbs will do in a pinch. Just reduce the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Can I add extra vegetables to this dish?

 Absolutely! You can add carrots, bell peppers, or even corn for added flavor and texture.

Can I use a regular pot instead of a pressure cooker?

Yes, if you’re using a regular pot, cover it tightly and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes. Make sure the rice is fully cooked before serving.

How do I know if the rice is cooked properly?

After one whistle, let the pressure settle naturally. When you open the cooker, check the rice texture. It should be soft and fluffy without being mushy.

How can I store leftover pulao?

You can store leftover pulao in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a microwave or on the stovetop with a little water to bring back its fluffiness.

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