Matar Ki Tehri Recipe (Pea Pilaf)
Cuisine: Awadhi
Course: One Pot Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Introduction:
Matar Ki Tehri, also known as Pea Pilaf, is a fragrant and flavorful dish that comes from the royal kitchens of Awadh. This one-pot vegetarian dish is made with aromatic basmati rice, tender green peas, and a delightful blend of spices. Its rich taste comes from the combination of ghee, whole spices, and fresh ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and ginger. This simple yet hearty meal is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
In Awadhi cuisine, Tehri is often paired with a cooling yogurt-based side dish like raita and crispy papad. It’s a complete meal in itself, offering a burst of flavors and a comforting texture. Let’s explore the step-by-step process to make this delightful Matar Ki Tehri.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Basmati Rice | 1 cup |
| Cloves (Laung) | 4-5 cloves |
| Cinnamon Stick | 1-inch piece |
| Black Peppercorns (Whole) | 1 tablespoon |
| Green Cardamoms | 2 whole |
| Dry Red Chili (Sukhi Lal Mirch) | 1 whole |
| Ghee | 3 tablespoons |
| Onion (finely sliced) | 1/4 cup |
| Tomato (finely chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh Ginger (grated) | 1/4-inch piece |
| Green Peas (fresh or frozen) | 1 cup |
| Fresh Coriander (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Bay Leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 leaf |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Rice & Peas:
- Wash the basmati rice thoroughly and soak it in water for 1 hour. After soaking, drain the water and set the rice aside.
- Soak the green peas in 1 cup of water. This helps them cook faster and ensures a softer texture.
-
Sauté the Whole Spices:
- In a pressure cooker, heat 3 tablespoons of ghee on medium heat.
- Once the ghee is hot, add the whole spices—cloves, cinnamon stick, black peppercorns, cardamoms, and the dry red chili.
- Let these cook for 2 minutes on a low flame to release their aromatic flavors.
-
Cook Onions and Ginger:
- Add the sliced onions and grated ginger to the cooker.
- Sauté them until the onions turn golden brown, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
-
Add Tomatoes and Peas:
- Next, add the chopped tomatoes and soaked peas to the cooker.
- Cook this mixture for 2 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften.
-
Add Rice and Coriander:
- Add the soaked and drained rice to the cooker along with the fresh coriander leaves and bay leaf.
- Add salt to taste and stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
-
Cook the Tehri:
- Pour in 2 cups of water (or adjust as needed for your desired rice consistency).
- Stir well, and increase the heat to high.
- Allow the water to come to a boil and cook for 1 whistle in the pressure cooker.
- After the whistle, reduce the heat to low and let the rice cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
-
Finish Cooking:
- After the time has passed, turn off the gas and let the steam release naturally from the pressure cooker.
- Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and gently fluff the rice with a fork to mix the ingredients evenly.
-
Serve:
- Serve the Matar Ki Tehri hot, accompanied by a side of tomato onion cucumber raita and crispy papad for a perfect, complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Matar Ki Tehri:
- Rice Soaking: Soaking the rice for an hour helps it cook evenly and keeps the grains separate.
- Adjusting Water: You can adjust the amount of water based on your preferred rice texture. For a softer rice, add a bit more water.
- Ghee Flavor: Ghee adds a rich aroma and flavor to the dish, but if you prefer a lighter version, you can use oil instead.
- Peas: If you are using frozen peas, there’s no need to soak them. Just add them directly after sautéing the onions and ginger.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 215 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Potassium | 120 mg |
Conclusion:
Matar Ki Tehri is a wholesome, aromatic dish that encapsulates the essence of Awadhi cuisine in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this one-pot dish is sure to please everyone at the table. The delicate blend of whole spices, fresh peas, and fragrant rice makes it an irresistible comfort food. Try serving it with a refreshing raita and crispy papad for an elevated experience!
