Butter Naan and Matar Paneer

Butter Naan and Matar Paneer is a indian cuisine, renowned for its vibrant spices and comforting dishes, never fails to delight. Among its treasures, butter naan and matar paneer stand out as a perfect pair. Consequently, this blog guides you through creating these classics with ease. Whether hosting a dinner or craving a cozy meal, these recipes will elevate your culinary game. So, let’s dive into the aromatic world of Indian cooking!
Butter Naan: Soft, Buttery Bliss (Butter Naan and Matar Paneer)
Butter naan, a fluffy flatbread, complements any curry with its golden, buttery crust. Moreover, its soft texture makes it ideal for scooping up rich gravies. Here’s how to make it from scratch.
Ingredients for Butter Naan
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All-purpose flour: 2 cups
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Active dry yeast: 1 tsp
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Warm water: ½ cup
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Milk: ¼ cup
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Sugar: 1 tsp
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Salt: ½ tsp
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Yogurt: 2 tbsp
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Butter: 3 tbsp (melted, for dough and brushing)
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Optional: Nigella seeds or chopped garlic for garnish
Steps to Make Butter Naan
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Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy. This ensures the yeast is active.
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Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, mix flour and salt. Next, add yogurt, milk, and the yeast mixture. Knead into a soft dough, incorporating 1 tbsp melted butter. If sticky, add a little flour.
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Let it Rise: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest in a warm place for 1-2 hours. Consequently, it will double in size, becoming airy.
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Shape the Naan: Divide the dough into 6 equal portions. Roll each into a ball, then flatten into an oval or teardrop shape, about ¼-inch thick. Optionally, sprinkle nigella seeds or garlic.
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Cook the Naan: Heat a cast-iron skillet or tawa over medium-high heat. Place a naan on the hot surface. When bubbles appear (about 1-2 minutes), flip it. Cook until golden spots form. Brush with melted butter.
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Serve Warm: Stack the naans and cover with a cloth to keep them soft. Serve immediately with matar paneer.
Transitioning to our curry, let’s explore the creamy, spiced delight of matar paneer.
Matar Paneer: A Creamy, Flavorful Curry (Butter Naan and Matar Paneer)
Matar paneer, a North Indian favorite, combines tender peas and paneer in a luscious tomato-based gravy. Furthermore, its mild spices make it approachable yet irresistible. Here’s the recipe to bring this dish to life.
Ingredients for Matar Paneer
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Paneer: 200g, cubed
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Green peas: 1 cup (fresh or frozen)
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Tomatoes: 2 medium, pureed
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Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
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Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tbsp
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Green chili: 1, slit (optional)
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Oil or ghee: 2 tbsp
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Cumin seeds: 1 tsp
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Turmeric powder: ½ tsp
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Red chili powder: 1 tsp
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Coriander powder: 1 tbsp
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Garam masala: ½ tsp
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Fresh cream: ¼ cup
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Cashews: 8-10, soaked and blended into a paste
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Fresh cilantro: For garnish
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Salt: To taste
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Water: ½-1 cup, as needed
Steps to Make Matar Paneer
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Prepare the Base: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Next, sauté onions until golden brown, ensuring a rich flavor base.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chili. Cook for a minute until fragrant. Then, add tomato puree, cooking until the oil separates.
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Spice it Up: Add turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Stir well to blend the spices. Consequently, the gravy develops a deep, aromatic profile.
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Incorporate Creaminess: Add cashew paste and fresh cream, stirring to create a velvety texture. Gradually add water to adjust consistency.
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Add Peas and Paneer: Toss in green peas and paneer cubes. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the peas soften. Sprinkle garam masala and salt, mixing gently.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot with butter naan for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, pair butter naan and matar paneer with a side of cucumber raita or a tangy pickle. Additionally, a sprinkle of chaat masala on the naan adds a zesty twist. For a complete meal, consider adding jeera rice or a refreshing lassi.
Why This Combo ,Butter Naan and Matar Paneer Works
Butter naan’s soft, buttery layers perfectly balance matar paneer’s creamy, mildly spiced gravy. Moreover, the combination feels indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, these recipes are straightforward and rewarding. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy this Indian feast!
