Aloo Matar Masala Khichdi Recipe
Aloo Matar Masala Khichdi is a delightful, mildly spicy dish from Bhojpuri cuisine, combining tender potatoes and peas with aromatic whole spices. Unlike the traditional khichdi that uses lentils, this version is all about the hearty goodness of potatoes and peas, cooked to perfection with an exquisite blend of spices. The result is a rich, flavorful khichdi with a soft, comforting texture that will surely become a favorite in your weekly dinner rotation.
This dish is a perfect choice for a simple yet wholesome meal, especially when paired with a refreshing Cauliflower & Cucumber Raita and crispy Papad. The whole spices infuse a lovely aroma into the dish, while the gentle heat from the green chilies and red chili powder adds just the right amount of warmth without overwhelming the taste.
Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned cook looking to add a fresh twist to your meal, this Aloo Matar Masala Khichdi promises to deliver a delicious experience. Let’s walk through the recipe!
Ingredients for Aloo Matar Masala Khichdi
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Green peas (Matar) | 1/2 cup |
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 3, cut into big cubes |
| Onion | 1, thinly sliced |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 1 tablespoon |
| Green Chillies | 2, finely chopped |
| Black Cardamom (Badi Elaichi) | 1 |
| Bay Leaf (Tej Patta) | 1 |
| Cardamom Pods/Seeds | 2 |
| Cinnamon Stick (Dalchini) | 1 inch |
| Cloves (Laung) | 2 |
| Cumin Seeds (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Powder (Dhania) | 1 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder (Jeera) | 1 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ghee | 1 tablespoon |
| Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | 1 tablespoon, finely chopped for garnish |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
Cooking Time: 20 Minutes
Instructions for Aloo Matar Masala Khichdi
-
Soak Rice & Prepare Potatoes:
- Start by washing the rice thoroughly and soak it in water until you’re ready to add it to the dish.
- Peel and chop the potatoes into large cubes, and keep them submerged in water to prevent browning until you’re ready to cook.
-
Prepare the Spices:
- Heat the ghee in a pressure pan over medium heat. Once the ghee is hot, add the whole spices—bay leaf, black cardamom, green cardamom, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Sauté for a few seconds to release their aromatic flavors.
- Add the cumin seeds and allow them to splutter, signaling that they’ve released their fragrance.
-
Sauté Onions & Green Chillies:
- Add the thinly sliced onions and finely chopped green chilies to the pan. Sauté them until the onions become translucent and soft.
-
Add Potatoes, Peas & Spices:
- Drain the potatoes from the water and add them to the pan along with the green peas. Sauté for about 1 minute to let the flavors meld together.
- Sprinkle in the coriander powder, cumin powder, black pepper, and red chili powder. Stir well to evenly coat the vegetables in the spices.
-
Cook the Rice:
- Add the soaked rice to the pan and give it a gentle stir. Pour in about 5 cups of water and season with salt to taste.
- Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once it’s boiling, cover the pan with its lid, and cook under pressure for 4 to 5 whistles, or until the rice and potatoes are cooked through and tender.
-
Let the Pressure Release:
- After cooking, turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally. This ensures the khichdi remains soft and fluffy.
-
Garnish & Serve:
- Once the pressure has released, open the lid and fluff the khichdi gently with a fork. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Aloo Matar Masala Khichdi hot, alongside a cooling Cauliflower & Cucumber Raita and crisp Papad for an easy yet satisfying meal.
- This khichdi is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own but pairs beautifully with other Indian sides for a complete feast.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, you can add a dollop of ghee on top of the khichdi before serving.
- Adjust the level of spice by adding more or less green chilies and red chili powder, according to your taste preferences.
- You can also add a handful of chopped vegetables like carrots or peas to customize the khichdi further.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 320mg |
| Sugars | 2g |
Aloo Matar Masala Khichdi is a beautiful representation of comforting Indian cuisine, made with a blend of simple ingredients and spices that bring out bold flavors. It’s perfect for a quick weekday dinner or even for a more relaxed family meal. Enjoy the aromatic fragrance and delightful taste of this wholesome dish!
