Matar Masala Recipe: A Flavorful Indian Delight
Matar Masala, a simple yet delicious Indian dish, is a perfect blend of fresh green peas cooked in a rich and flavorful masala gravy. This vegetarian dish makes for an ideal addition to your lunch box, offering a hearty meal full of essential nutrients. Whether you use fresh or frozen peas, the end result will be a tasty and satisfying dish that is easy to prepare. Best paired with boondi raita and tawa paratha, this recipe will surely become a favorite for everyday meals.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green peas | 1 cup |
| Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Red chili powder | 1-1/2 tsp |
| Coriander powder | 1 tsp |
| Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Onion | 2, chopped |
| Tomato | 3, chopped |
| Green chili | 3, slit |
| Garlic | 10 cloves, minced |
| Ginger | 2-inch piece, grated |
| Cashews | 20, soaked |
| Almond milk (or water) | 1-2 tsp |
Prep Time: 20 Minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Indian
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Cook the Peas:
In a saucepan, add the green peas and pour enough water to cover them. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a gentle boil. Let the peas cook until they are soft and tender, but be careful not to overcook them. Drain any excess water and set the peas aside. -
-
Prepare the Masala Paste:
In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil and add grated ginger and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the chopped onions and cook until they turn soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
Next, add the green chilies and chopped tomatoes. Stir well and cook until the tomatoes soften and turn mushy. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool down to room temperature. -
Grind the Masala Paste:
Once the onion-tomato mixture has cooled, transfer it to a mixer or grinder and blend it into a smooth paste. Set the paste aside. -
Prepare the Cashew Paste:
In a separate grinder, add the soaked cashews and almond milk (or water). Grind the mixture into a smooth paste and set it aside. -
Cook the Matar Masala:
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds and let them crackle for a few seconds.
Add the prepared onion-tomato paste and cook it on medium heat for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. -
Add Spices:
Now, sprinkle in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well and let the masala cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse into the base. -
Combine with Green Peas:
Add the cooked green peas to the masala and stir gently to combine. Let the peas cook in the spices for 5 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors. -
Add Kasuri Methi and Cashew Paste:
Sprinkle in the kasuri methi and mix it well. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to release the aroma.
Add the cashew paste to the pan, stir it into the curry, and cook on a low flame for 3 minutes, allowing the dish to thicken slightly. -
Final Touches:
Sprinkle in the garam masala powder and stir to incorporate. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for an added burst of color and flavor. -
Serve:
Serve the delectable Matar Masala hot with a side of boondi raita and tawa paratha for a wholesome and satisfying lunch.
Tips for Perfect Matar Masala:
- Fresh vs Frozen Peas: If you have access to fresh peas, they bring out the best flavor. However, frozen peas work just as well when fresh peas are not available.
- Creaminess: The cashew paste adds a creamy texture to the dish, making it rich and delicious. You can adjust the amount of almond milk based on how creamy you prefer your curry.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder to suit your preference for spice.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
Conclusion
Matar Masala is a wonderful dish to include in your lunch rotation, offering a delicious and healthy option for your meal. Its balance of spices and creamy texture from the cashew paste makes it a comforting choice. Pair it with your favorite Indian sides like tawa paratha or rice to complete the experience. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a crowd, this dish is sure to impress!
