Banarasi Chooda Matar (Chura Matar)
Recipe for Love With Recipes
If you’re tired of the usual Poha, then let us introduce you to a royal twist on this beloved dish! Banarasi Chooda Matar, also known as Chura Matar, is a flavorful, comforting variation of Poha that originates from the vibrant streets of Banaras (Varanasi). This winter delicacy is often made when fresh, green peas (Matar) flood the markets, adding a lovely sweetness and color to the dish. Richly prepared with a generous amount of ghee, milk, cream, and a sprinkle of garam masala, this dish is a warming and satisfying way to start your day. It’s a delightful departure from the more familiar Maharashtrian Kanda/Batata Pohe, with an unmistakable northern flair!
This dish is typically served as a winter breakfast in Banaras and is a perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of masala chai. Enjoy the unique flavors of Banarasi Chooda Matar for a true taste of North Indian street food, especially on a chilly morning.
Ingredients for Banarasi Chooda Matar (Chura Matar)
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Poha (Flattened Rice) | 1 cup |
| Milk | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh Cream | 1/2 cup |
| Green Chilli (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Green Peas (Matar), shelled | 3/4 cup |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 inch |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Coriander Leaves (finely chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Ghee (Clarified Butter) | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 210mg |
Preparation & Cooking Instructions
Preparation (10 minutes)
- Begin by thoroughly washing the poha under running water. Gently soak it in a mixture of milk and cream for about 10 minutes, allowing it to absorb the creamy goodness. Once done, set the soaked poha aside.
Cooking (20 minutes)
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In a wok or large pan, heat ghee on medium heat until it melts and starts to shimmer.
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Add the cumin seeds (jeera) into the hot ghee, allowing them to crackle and release their fragrant oils. This will create the base for the aromatic flavors to follow.
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Toss in the finely chopped green chilli and grated ginger. Sauté them for about a minute, allowing the spices to release their fragrance.
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Add the green peas (matar), and toss them in the pan for a couple of minutes. Allow them to cook and soften slightly. You can cover the pan for a minute to help the peas cook evenly.
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Sprinkle in the garam masala and black pepper powder. Stir well, coating the peas with the spices. Cover the pan and let the peas cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are tender.
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Season the mixture with salt to taste. Add the finely chopped coriander leaves, and stir to combine. The coriander will bring a fresh, herby fragrance to the dish.
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Now, gently fold in the soaked poha. Stir carefully, ensuring the poha is evenly coated with the flavorful ghee-spiced peas mixture. Cover the pan again and let it cook on low heat for about 5 minutes. This step allows all the flavors to infuse into the poha.
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Finally, squeeze in lemon juice for a touch of tanginess, and give it one last gentle stir to incorporate.
Serving
Serve your Banarasi Chooda Matar hot, ideally with a cup of masala chai. This dish is perfect for a cozy winter breakfast, offering both warmth and comfort in every bite. You can also enjoy it as a street-style snack, just like the ones you’ll find on the bustling streets of Banaras during the cold months.
Additional Tips
- If you’re looking for a richer flavor, feel free to increase the amount of ghee used in the dish. Ghee adds a luxurious touch that is central to the traditional Banarasi style.
- You can also experiment by adding a few cashews or almonds for some extra crunch and richness.
- Banarasi Chooda Matar is often enjoyed alongside a steaming cup of masala chai, so don’t forget to brew a cup of your favorite spiced tea to go with it!
With its creamy texture, warming spices, and delicious green peas, Banarasi Chooda Matar is a breakfast fit for royalty. It’s a great way to experience the flavors of Banaras right in your own home.
