Methi Matar Malai – A Creamy Fenugreek & Peas Delight
Methi Matar Malai is a comforting and healthy North Indian dish that combines the slightly bitter taste of fenugreek leaves (methi) with the sweetness of green peas and the richness of cream. It’s an exquisite side dish that pairs wonderfully with roti, paratha, or steamed rice. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Let’s dive into the recipe for this delectable, creamy delight!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to prepare this mouthwatering Methi Matar Malai:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh fenugreek (methi) leaves | 250 grams (finely chopped) |
| Green peas | 100 grams (steamed) |
| Salt | As per taste |
| Cumin seeds (jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Tomato (pureed) | 1 medium-sized |
| Hung curd (strained yogurt) | 1/2 cup |
| Sugar | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium-sized |
| Green chilies | 2 whole |
| Garlic (cloves) | 2 cloves |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece |
| Almonds (soaked) | 6 almonds |
| Poppy seeds (khus khus) | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people.
Cuisine
North Indian
Course
Side Dish
Diet
Vegetarian
Instructions
To make the perfect Methi Matar Malai, follow these step-by-step instructions:
-
Prepare the Paste:
Start by preparing the masala paste. In a grinder, add the almonds, poppy seeds, garlic, ginger, green chilies, and a little bit of water. Grind these ingredients into a smooth paste and set it aside. -
Cook the Fenugreek (Methi):
Heat oil in a wide frying pan (kadhai) on medium heat. Add the finely chopped fenugreek leaves (methi) and salt. Stir-fry them until they soften and shrink in size. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Once done, remove the fenugreek from the pan and set it aside. -
Prepare the Masala:
In the same pan, add a little more oil. Now, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add the ground masala paste along with salt to taste, and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
Add Spices & Tomato:
Next, add the turmeric powder, garam masala powder, black pepper powder, and the tomato puree. Mix everything well and cook for another 1 minute, allowing the flavors to combine. -
Add Hung Curd:
Now, add the hung curd (strained yogurt) to the pan. Stir well to incorporate it into the mixture. Let it cook for about 30 seconds until the yogurt is well combined. -
Combine Fenugreek and Peas:
Add the cooked fenugreek (methi) leaves and steamed green peas to the pan. Mix gently to coat the fenugreek and peas in the creamy masala. Let the dish cook on low heat for about 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Final Touch:
Turn off the heat, and your Methi Matar Malai is ready to serve. It can be enjoyed immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Methi Matar Malai pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. You can serve it with:
- Roti or Paratha – Soft Indian flatbreads that are perfect for scooping up the creamy curry.
- Steamed Rice – A great choice to soak up the rich sauce.
- Tomato, Onion, Cucumber Raita – The coolness of the yogurt-based raita balances out the creaminess of the curry.
- Panchmel Dal – A flavorful dal made with five different lentils, adding a protein-packed side dish to your meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients used.)
Tips for Best Results
- Fenugreek (Methi): Fresh fenugreek leaves are essential for the authentic taste of this dish. If fresh methi is unavailable, you can use dried fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi), but the flavor may differ slightly.
- Steamed Peas: To retain the sweetness and color of the peas, steam them lightly rather than boiling them.
- Hung Curd: If you don’t have hung curd, you can use regular thick yogurt, but ensure it is not too watery.
- Adjusting Consistency: If you prefer a slightly thinner curry, you can add a little water or milk to adjust the consistency.
Why You’ll Love Methi Matar Malai
This dish is a perfect combination of flavors—slightly bitter from the fenugreek, sweet from the peas, and creamy from the yogurt and spices. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and protein. The richness of the dish, without being overwhelmingly heavy, makes it a great choice for both special occasions and everyday meals.
Enjoy your delicious, creamy Methi Matar Malai with your favorite Indian breads or rice, and experience the warmth and comfort of this North Indian classic!
