Matar Ki Tehri Recipe: A Traditional Awadhi Delight
Matar Ki Tehri, an iconic one-pot dish from the heart of Uttar Pradesh, embodies the essence of Awadhi cuisine. Unlike the dry and aromatic nature of Pulao, Matar Ki Tehri has a slightly wet and sticky texture, making it a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the richness of whole spices, tender rice, and the sweetness of green peas, creating a harmonious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a regular meal or packing it for lunch, this dish promises both taste and nourishment.
Matar Ki Tehri Recipe Overview
- Cuisine: Awadhi
- Course: One-Pot Dish
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Serves: 2-3 servings
Ingredients for Matar Ki Tehri
| Ingredient Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Cloves | 4-5 |
| Cinnamon | 1 inch |
| Whole Black Pepper | 1 tablespoon |
| Big Cardamom | 2 pieces |
| Dried Red Chilli | 1 |
| Ghee | 3 tablespoons |
| Onion | 1/4 cup, thinly sliced |
| Tomato | 1/4 cup, thinly sliced |
| Ginger | 1/4 inch, grated |
| Green Peas | 1 cup |
| Coriander Leaves | 1/4 cup, finely chopped |
| Bay Leaf | 1 |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Instructions for Matar Ki Tehri
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- Start by soaking the rice in water for about 1 hour. This helps to soften the grains and ensures they cook evenly.
- After soaking, drain the water and set the rice aside for later use.
Step 2: Soak the Green Peas
- While the rice is soaking, soak the green peas in a cup of hot water for a few minutes to rehydrate them (if using dried peas). If using frozen peas, this step is not necessary.
Step 3: Temper the Whole Spices
- In a pressure cooker, heat ghee over a medium flame. Once the ghee has melted, add the following whole spices:
- Cloves
- Cinnamon stick
- Whole black pepper
- Big cardamom
- Dried red chili
- Sauté the spices in the ghee for 1-2 minutes on a low flame, allowing them to release their flavors.
Step 4: Sauté Onions and Ginger
- Add thinly sliced onions and grated ginger to the cooker. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn golden brown and aromatic.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Green Peas
- Once the onions are browned, add the thinly sliced tomatoes and green peas to the cooker. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly.
Step 6: Add the Rice and Spices
- Next, add the soaked rice and coriander leaves to the cooker. Sprinkle in salt to taste, and mix everything together so that the rice is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 7: Cook the Matar Ki Tehri
- Add enough water to the cooker, keeping in mind that Matar Ki Tehri is meant to be slightly sticky and wet. The water should cover the rice and vegetables.
- Close the pressure cooker lid and cook the rice on a high flame until you hear 1 whistle. After the whistle, reduce the flame to low and let the rice cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Turn off the flame and allow the pressure to release naturally.
Step 8: Serve
- Once the pressure has released, open the cooker and gently fluff the rice with a spoon to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Serve the Matar Ki Tehri hot, garnished with fresh coriander leaves for added fragrance and color.
Serving Suggestions
Matar Ki Tehri pairs wonderfully with side dishes like Boondi Raita and Papad for a complete meal. The combination of warm, spiced rice and cooling raita creates a delightful balance of flavors that will surely leave everyone asking for more.
Enjoy this rich and flavorful Awadhi dish that captures the essence of home-cooked goodness! Whether for lunch, dinner, or a special meal, Matar Ki Tehri is sure to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds.
