Peas In Onion Tomato Gravy (Matar Masala) Recipe
This delightful Peas In Onion Tomato Gravy, also known as Matar Masala, is an incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make dish. It’s perfect when fresh green peas are in season, but frozen peas can be used in its preparation as well. The peas are cooked in a rich, spiced onion and tomato gravy that is aromatic and satisfying. This recipe is quick and perfect for packing in your lunchbox. The combination of spices and the creamy texture from cashew paste and almond milk enhances the flavor, making it a favorite comfort food.
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Peas (Hara Matar) | 1 cup |
| Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric Powder (Haldi) | ½ tsp |
| Red Chili Powder | 1½ tsp |
| Coriander Powder | 1 tsp |
| Kasuri Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves) | 1 pinch |
| Salt | To taste |
| Garam Masala Powder | ½ tsp |
| Onion (Pyaaz) | 2 medium, finely chopped |
| Tomato (Tamatar) | 3 medium, chopped |
| Green Chilies | 3, slit |
| Garlic Cloves (Lahsun) | 10, finely chopped |
| Ginger (Adrak) | 2-inch piece, finely chopped |
| Cashews (Kaju) | 20, soaked and ground into paste |
| Almond Milk (Badam Ka Doodh) | 2 tsp (or water) |
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Peas
- Start by boiling the green peas in a saucepan. Add a pinch of salt and cook them until they are tender.
- Once done, drain the water and set the peas aside.
Step 2: Preparing the Masala Paste
- Heat oil in a pan or kadhai. Add chopped ginger and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the finely chopped onions and cook them until they turn soft and translucent.
- Toss in the slit green chilies and sauté for an additional minute.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook them down until they become soft and pulpy.
- Let the mixture cool slightly, then blend it into a smooth paste.
Step 3: Cashew Paste
- For the cashew paste, blend the soaked cashews into a smooth paste. You can use almond milk or water to assist in blending.
Step 4: Cooking the Gravy
- In the same kadhai, heat some oil. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter for about 10 seconds.
- Add the prepared onion-tomato paste and sauté it for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Now, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, kasuri methi, and salt. Mix everything well and cook for another 3 minutes on medium heat.
- Add the boiled peas to the gravy and stir everything together. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the peas to absorb the flavors.
Step 5: Adding the Cashew Paste
- Stir in the cashew paste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken and become creamy.
Step 6: Final Touch
- Sprinkle garam masala powder over the curry and mix well.
- Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Step 7: Serving
- Serve this delicious Matar Masala hot with Gujarati Kadhi and soft phulkas or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Enjoy your flavorful Peas In Onion Tomato Gravy that is sure to delight your taste buds! The creamy texture and spicy, tangy flavors make it a perfect addition to your lunch or dinner menu.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 7g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
This recipe offers a satisfying and nutritious dish, packed with essential vitamins and minerals from the peas and aromatic spices. Perfect for a wholesome meal!
