Aloo Muttar (Pea and Potato Curry)
Spice Level: Medium
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Serves: 4
Dietary Info: Vegetarian
Views: 65,456
Rating: 3.8
Number of Votes: 66
Aloo Muttar, a simple and comforting pea and potato curry, is a beloved dish in Indian cuisine. With its rich, fragrant spices and tender vegetables, itโs a perfect meal for anyone craving a hearty, flavorful vegetarian dish. Ideal for serving with roti or rice, this curry balances the softness of potatoes and the slight sweetness of peas with a fragrant blend of spices like garam masala, fenugreek, and turmeric. Its versatility and satisfying nature make it a go-to recipe for any meal of the day.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Oil (for cooking) | 1 tbsp |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Garlic (chopped) | 3 cloves |
| Fresh Ginger (grated) | 3 cm piece |
| Tinned Plum Tomatoes | 250g |
| Green Chilli (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Fenugreek Powder (Methi) | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric | 1 tsp |
| Chilli Powder | 1 tsp |
| Potato (peeled and chopped into cubes) | 1 or 2 |
| Frozen Peas | 200g |
| Garam Masala | 1 tsp |
| Fresh Coriander (chopped) | A handful |
Allergen Information:
This dish is free from common allergens such as dairy, nuts, and gluten, making it an excellent choice for people with dietary restrictions. Please note that the recipe contains onions, garlic, and other spices, which may cause reactions for sensitive individuals. Always check ingredient labels, especially when using packaged items like tinned tomatoes, to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian: Aloo Muttar is completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans (as long as the garam masala is free from animal products).
- Gluten-Free: This recipe does not contain any gluten, making it a great option for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- Dairy-Free: It is naturally dairy-free, suitable for lactose intolerant or dairy-free diets.
Instructions:
-
Sautรฉ the base:
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sautรฉ for a few minutes. Once the onion begins to soften, stir in the chopped garlic and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the onion turns golden and tender. -
Prepare the sauce:
Once the onions are cooked, add the tinned plum tomatoes (you can blend them for a smoother consistency if desired), grated ginger, salt, turmeric, fenugreek powder, and chili powder. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly, and allow the sauce to cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes and onions form a thick, flavorful masala paste. -
Add the potatoes:
Stir in the chopped potatoes, making sure they are well coated in the sauce. Once the potatoes are mixed in, cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat, and allow the potatoes to cook for 5-10 minutes. This step helps the potatoes absorb the flavors of the masala. -
Add the peas:
After the potatoes have had a chance to soften slightly, add the frozen peas to the pan. Stir gently to combine, and cover the pan again. Let the mixture cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fully cooked through and tender. Keep an eye on the dish, and if the potatoes begin to stick, add a splash of water to prevent them from burning. Avoid stirring too much to ensure the potatoes do not break apart. -
Adjust the consistency:
Once the potatoes and peas are cooked, pour in enough hot water to reach your desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker curry, use less water. Stir gently, and bring the curry back to a simmer. -
Finish the dish:
Sprinkle the curry with garam masala and chopped fresh coriander. Stir to combine and remove from the heat. Serve the Aloo Muttar hot, with fluffy roti or fragrant basmati rice, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delightful vegetarian dish.
Advice:
- Customizing the Spice Level: If you like a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of chili powder or add a second green chili when cooking the onions. You can also adjust the amount of garam masala for a deeper flavor.
- Creamier Texture: For a creamier consistency, add a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of plain yogurt towards the end of cooking. This can add richness and balance out the spices.
- Serving Suggestions: Aloo Muttar pairs wonderfully with warm naan, chapati, or steamed basmati rice. For an added touch, serve with a cooling cucumber raita or a simple salad on the side.
Conclusion:
Aloo Muttar is a timeless dish that captures the essence of Indian home cooking. With its straightforward ingredients and simple preparation method, this pea and potato curry makes a perfect addition to any meal, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual weeknight meal. Itโs a flavorful, filling, and comforting dish that can be enjoyed by all ages. Not only is it a versatile recipe, but itโs also a fantastic way to explore the aromatic spices of Indian cuisine, all while keeping things vegetarian and gluten-free.
Enjoy the warmth and depth of flavors in every bite of this hearty and satisfying curry!
