Spinach and Green Peas Curry (Palak Matar)
Introduction:
Spinach and Green Peas Curry, or Palak Matar, is a simple yet delicious North Indian dish that pairs well with roti, rice, or paratha. This vegetarian recipe combines the rich flavors of spinach with the sweet crunch of green peas, offering a nutritious and flavorful curry. The addition of a tempering made with ghee, cumin seeds, and dry red chilies elevates the dish, giving it a beautiful aroma and depth of flavor. This curry is perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spinach (Palak) | 500 grams |
| Green Peas (Matar) | 1 cup |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium-sized |
| Tomato, finely chopped | 1 medium-sized |
| Ginger, grated | 2-inch piece |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 3 cloves |
| Red Chili Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic, finely chopped | 2 cloves |
| Onion, finely chopped | 3 teaspoons |
| Dry Red Chili | 1 whole |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
Preparation Time:
20 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
50 minutes
Servings:
4
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spinach:
Start by thoroughly washing the spinach (palak). Bring a pot of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Blanch the spinach leaves in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until they soften. After blanching, drain the spinach and immediately transfer it into a bowl of ice-cold water to preserve its green color. Once cooled, blend the spinach into a smooth paste using a little water. Set this aside. -
Cook the Onion and Spices:
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a deep pan or kadhai. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them on medium heat until they turn soft and translucent, about 5-6 minutes. Next, add the grated ginger and finely chopped garlic. Stir and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant. -
Add Tomatoes and Peas:
Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook them until they soften, which will take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the green peas and 1/2 cup of water. Cook the peas for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and cooked through. -
Spice it Up:
Once the peas are cooked, add the coriander powder, red chili powder, and garam masala powder. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to blend into the mixture. -
Combine Spinach Paste:
Now, add the prepared spinach paste to the pan along with salt to taste. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together and the curry to thicken. -
Prepare the Tempering (Tadka):
In a small frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee. Add the cumin seeds and dry red chili. Once the cumin starts to splutter, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté them until they are golden brown and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garam masala powder and mix well. -
Final Touch:
Pour this tempering over the cooked spinach and peas curry. Give everything a gentle stir to incorporate the tempering into the curry, adding an extra burst of flavor. -
Serve:
Serve your Palak Matar hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice. You can also pair it with a bowl of boondi raita for a refreshing contrast.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 135 kcal |
| Protein | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Cholesterol | 10 mg |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Potassium | 500 mg |
Tips & Variations:
- For a Creamier Texture: You can add a little cream or yogurt to the curry towards the end of cooking for a richer, creamier consistency.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red chili powder to suit your spice tolerance. You can also add green chilies for a spicier kick.
- Additions: For more protein, you can add some paneer cubes or tofu along with the peas.
Conclusion:
This Spinach and Green Peas Curry (Palak Matar) is a comforting and nutritious dish, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch. The vibrant green spinach and the sweet green peas pair perfectly with the aromatic spices and tempering. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this curry is sure to become a staple in your household.
