Hariyali Matar Recipe: A Flavorful North Indian Side Dish
When it comes to comfort food thatโs both nutritious and bursting with flavors, the Hariyali Matar recipe stands out as an ideal side dish for any meal. Packed with the goodness of green peas, homemade paneer, and a fragrant green masala made of coriander, ginger, garlic, and green chilies, this dish is a treat for your taste buds and health. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lunchbox delight, Hariyali Matar can be paired beautifully with Tawa Parathas and a tangy Gajar Shimla Mirch Sambharo for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green peas (Matar), steamed | 2 cups |
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese), cut into small cubes | 1/2 cup |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 pinch |
| Sunflower oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh coriander leaves (Dhania), tightly packed | 2 cups |
| Green chilies | 2 |
| Garlic cloves | 5 |
| Ginger (1-inch piece) | 1-inch piece |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 130 kcal |
| Protein | Approx. 6 grams |
| Carbohydrates | Approx. 18 grams |
| Fat | Approx. 5 grams |
| Fiber | Approx. 5 grams |
| Sodium | Approx. 400 mg |
Prep Time
| Duration | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 5 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
Instructions
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Prepare the Green Peas: Begin by peeling and washing the green peas. Steam the peas using a steamer or a similar method and set them aside for later use.
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Prepare the Green Masala Paste: In a blender or food processor, combine the tightly packed coriander leaves, green chilies, garlic, ginger, and lemon juice. Add a very small amount of water, just enough to help blend the ingredients into a smooth paste. Set the masala paste aside.
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Cook the Spices: Heat sunflower oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and a pinch of asafoetida. Let the cumin seeds splutter, releasing their aromatic oils.
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Sautรฉ the Green Masala: Once the cumin seeds are ready, add the freshly ground green masala paste to the pan. Sautรฉ for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the masala is well-cooked and the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
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Add the Green Peas: Add the steamed green peas to the pan, season with salt, and mix well. Pour in 1 cup of water and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the gravy thicken slightly.
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Incorporate the Paneer: Once the gravy has thickened, add the cubed paneer to the pan. Gently stir to ensure the paneer is well-coated with the masala. Let the dish simmer for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors of the curry.
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Finish and Serve: Once the curry is done, turn off the heat. Transfer the Hariyali Matar to a serving bowl. Serve hot, ideally with Tawa Parathas or your favorite Indian flatbread, and a side of Gajar Shimla Mirch Sambharo for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
The Hariyali Matar pairs wonderfully with:
- Tawa Parathas: Soft and flaky, they make the perfect accompaniment to this flavorful curry.
- Gajar Shimla Mirch Sambharo: A refreshing, tangy carrot and bell pepper salad with mustard and cumin flavors, providing a crisp contrast to the curry.
Tips for Success
- Homemade Paneer: Using fresh homemade paneer will enhance the flavor of this dish. However, store-bought paneer also works perfectly well.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the number of green chilies. For extra heat, you can add a pinch of red chili powder.
- Vegan Variation: For a vegan version, simply substitute paneer with tofu or skip it altogether.
Why Youโll Love This Recipe
This dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrition. The combination of green peas and paneer provides a good amount of protein, while the coriander and green chilies add a fresh and zesty flavor. The recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether youโre a fan of North Indian cuisine or just looking to try something new, Hariyali Matar is a dish that will leave you coming back for more.
Conclusion
The Hariyali Matar recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the bold, fresh flavors of Indian cuisine. With minimal ingredients and a simple cooking process, this dish delivers maximum flavor and nutrition in a short amount of time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, it pairs well with various Indian breads and sides. So, go ahead and bring the taste of North India into your home with this vibrant and healthy side dish!
