Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer is a popular frozen meal option for those seeking authentic Indian flavors with a vegetarian twist. This dish combines organic ingredients like basmati rice, peas, and garbanzo beans with aromatic spices to create a satisfying and flavorful experience.
Unopened, Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer can last up to 12 months in the freezer when stored at or below 0°F (-18°C). Once thawed, it should be consumed within 3-4 days if refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below. It’s essential to follow proper storage guidelines to maintain the quality and safety of the product.
Cooking this frozen meal is straightforward, with options for both microwave and conventional oven preparation. The microwave method takes 4-5 minutes, while oven cooking requires preheating to 375°F and baking for about 35-40 minutes. Regardless of the cooking method chosen, Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer offers a convenient way to enjoy a tasty vegetarian meal with organic ingredients.
Understanding Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer
Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer combines traditional ingredients and flavors in a convenient frozen meal. This dish features paneer cheese, organic basmati rice, and a blend of vegetables and spices.
Ingredients Breakdown
The main components of Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer include paneer cheese, organic basmati rice, organic peas, and organic garbanzo beans. Paneer, a fresh cheese common in Indian cuisine, provides a mild flavor and firm texture.
The dish incorporates a variety of spices such as turmeric, paprika, and organic garlic. Organic ginger purée adds a zesty kick. Sunflower oil is used for cooking.
These ingredients work together to create a balanced and flavorful meal that captures the essence of traditional Indian cuisine.
Nutritional Profile
Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer offers a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. The paneer cheese and garbanzo beans contribute to the protein content.
Organic basmati rice serves as the primary source of carbohydrates. The dish also contains dietary fiber from the peas and garbanzo beans.
Key nutrients include:
- Calories: Varies by serving size
- Protein: Moderate amount
- Carbohydrates: Primary energy source
- Sodium: Present, amount varies
The exact nutritional values can be found on the product’s Nutrition Facts label.
Diet Compatibility
Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer caters to several dietary preferences and restrictions. It is suitable for vegetarian diets, offering a meat-free protein source in the form of paneer cheese and legumes.
The meal is gluten-free, making it appropriate for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. It is also certified kosher, meeting specific dietary laws.
While suitable for lacto-vegetarians, it is not vegan due to the presence of paneer cheese. The dish may contain common allergens, so individuals with specific food allergies should carefully review the ingredient list.
Shelf Life and Preservation
Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer has specific storage requirements and shelf life considerations. Proper handling ensures food safety and maintains the dish’s quality.
Determining Shelf Life
Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer has a shelf life of two years from the manufacture date when kept frozen. The expiration date is laser-coded on the side of the box or printed on the heat-sealed flap of film wrappers. Once thawed or opened, the dish should be consumed within 2-3 days for optimal quality.
Frozen meals like Mattar Paneer maintain their quality longer than refrigerated options. The freezing process preserves the ingredients and flavors effectively.
Storage Recommendations
Store Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer in the freezer until ready to use. After opening, transfer any leftover portions to an airtight container and refrigerate.
Keep the dish at a consistent temperature to prevent freezer burn or bacterial growth. Avoid leaving the meal at room temperature for extended periods.
To reheat, follow the instructions on the package. Microwave for 4-5 minutes with a 1-inch slit in the overwrap, or bake in a preheated 375°F oven covered with foil.
Allergen Awareness and Food Safety
Amy’s Kitchen provides allergen information on their product labels. Check for potential allergens like dairy, which is present in the paneer cheese.
Always inspect the packaging for signs of damage before consuming. If the meal appears discolored or has an off odor after heating, discard it.
Practice good hygiene when handling the product. Use clean utensils and avoid cross-contamination with other foods to prevent the spread of bacteria or allergens.
Cooking and Serving Ideas
Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer offers versatile preparation options and pairs well with various accompaniments. Proper cooking techniques enhance the flavors of this dish, while thoughtful pairings create a satisfying meal.
Preparation Techniques
To cook Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer in the microwave, make a 1-inch slit in the overwrap. Heat on high for 4-5 minutes, then let it sit for 1 minute before serving. This quick method is ideal for those short on time.
For conventional oven preparation, preheat to 375°F. Remove the overwrap, cover the tray with foil, and place on a baking sheet. Cook for 45-50 minutes. This method results in a more evenly heated dish with enhanced flavors.
Toaster oven cooking is also possible, following similar steps as the conventional oven method. Adjust cooking time as needed based on your specific toaster oven.
Accompaniments and Pairings
Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer combines well with various side dishes. Serve with warm naan bread or roti for a traditional Indian meal experience. A side of cooling raita or cucumber salad balances the spices in the dish.
For added vegetables, consider sautéing organic carrots or serving a side of steamed broccoli. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the mattar paneer.
To enhance the meal, prepare a side of basmati rice or quinoa. These grains absorb the flavorful sauce and provide a satisfying texture contrast.
For a complete vegetarian feast, pair the mattar paneer with other Indian dishes like dal (lentil soup) or aloo gobi (potato and cauliflower curry).
Understanding Labels and Certifications
Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer features several important labels and certifications. These provide valuable information about the product’s ingredients, production methods, and dietary considerations.
Organic Certification
The US-ORG-050 certification on Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer indicates its organic status. This certification ensures the product meets strict USDA organic standards.
Key organic ingredients include organic cornstarch, organic tomato purée, and filtered water. These components are produced without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
Organic certification also prohibits the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in any ingredients.
Other Key Labels
Amy’s Kitchen Indian Mattar Paneer displays additional important labels. The product is certified vegetarian, catering to those avoiding meat products.
Allergen information is clearly stated on the packaging. This helps consumers with food sensitivities make informed choices.
The label also indicates the product is gluten-free. This makes it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
Nutritional information, including calorie content and macronutrient breakdown, is provided to help consumers make dietary decisions.