Masaura and Potato Tarkari Recipe
A Flavorful Indian Vegetarian Delight
Masaura and Potato Tarkari is a comforting and flavorful vegetarian curry, perfect for a cozy lunch or a satisfying weekday meal. This simple yet delicious dish combines the hearty texture of mashed masauras (yellow split peas) with the mild sweetness of potatoes, all enveloped in a fragrant blend of Indian spices. Whether served with steamed rice or kachumber salad, this dish is sure to please any palate.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Masauras (Yellow Split Peas) | 1 cup |
| Potatoes (Aloo), chopped | 1 cup |
| Onions, chopped | 1 cup |
| Tomatoes, chopped | 1 cup |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ginger paste | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic paste | 1 teaspoon |
| Green chili paste | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin powder (Jeera) | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh cream | 1/2 cup |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Sunflower oil | 6 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper powder | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | ~35 g |
| Protein | ~10 g |
| Fat | ~12 g |
| Fiber | ~7 g |
| Sugar | ~5 g |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients and portions used.)
Preparation Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
Servings
This recipe yields 2 servings, making it ideal for a cozy lunch or a light dinner. You can easily double or triple the recipe to serve more guests.
Cuisine
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Course: Lunch
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the masauras
Begin by heating a heavy-bottomed pan and adding 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil to it. Once the oil heats up, add the masauras and fry them until they turn golden brown, taking care not to burn them. Once done, transfer the masauras to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the onions and spices
In the same pan, add another 1 tablespoon of oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in the cumin seeds (jeera) and let them splutter. Next, add the chopped onions and turmeric powder. Sauté until the onions turn light brown and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Fry the potatoes
Add the chopped potatoes to the pan. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir well to coat the potatoes in the spices. Cook the mixture on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes begin to brown lightly and are partially cooked.
Step 4: Add ginger, garlic, and spices
Stir in the ginger paste, garlic paste, green chili paste, and cumin powder. Let the spices cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to release their aromas.
Step 5: Combine with masauras and simmer
Next, return the fried masauras to the pan. Add the chopped tomatoes, water, and fresh cream. Stir everything together, ensuring the masauras and potatoes are well mixed with the spices. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are fully cooked and tender.
Step 6: Finish and serve
Once the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded, turn off the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Serve Masaura and Potato Tarkari hot with steamed rice and a refreshing kachumber salad for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete and balanced meal, pair Masaura and Potato Tarkari with the following sides:
- Steamed rice: The mild, fluffy rice complements the rich and flavorful curry beautifully.
- Kachumber salad: A refreshing cucumber, tomato, and onion salad with a hint of lime and cilantro to balance the spiciness of the tarkari.
Tips for the Perfect Masaura and Potato Tarkari
- Masauras: If you’re unable to find masauras, you can substitute with yellow lentils or moong dal. Just note that the cooking time may vary slightly.
- Cream: For a richer curry, you can increase the amount of cream. Alternatively, for a lighter version, use coconut milk or yogurt.
- Spices: Adjust the green chili paste and turmeric powder according to your spice tolerance. You can also add a pinch of garam masala at the end for extra flavor.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker curry, cook uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow the sauce to reduce.
Why You’ll Love Masaura and Potato Tarkari
This dish offers a perfect balance of earthy flavors, creamy textures, and spicy warmth, making it a delicious choice for anyone craving a satisfying vegetarian meal. The tender masauras provide a nutritious protein source, while the potatoes add a comforting, starchy element. With minimal ingredients and a quick cooking process, Masaura and Potato Tarkari is both simple and flavorful—an excellent addition to any weeknight dinner rotation.
Enjoy your Masaura and Potato Tarkari, and feel free to share it with family and friends for a taste of authentic Indian home cooking!
