Indian Spicy Peas (Sukhi Matar): A Flavorful Side Dish for Every Meal
Description
Indian Spicy Peas, also known as Sukhi Matar, is a delightful and spicy side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of Indian dishes, such as curries and dals. This versatile dish can also complement Western meals, adding an exotic twist when served alongside steaks and a potato dish. With its vibrant flavors and quick preparation time, Sukhi Matar is perfect for those looking to add a burst of Indian spice to their meal in under 30 minutes.
Keywords
Vegetable, Asian, Indian, Vegan, Spring, Summer, Spicy, < 30 Mins, Stove Top, Easy, Inexpensive
Ingredients
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seed
- 1/2 pound frozen green peas
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 – 3/4 cup water
- 2 teaspoons garam masala
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 107.5
- Fat: 3.3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 335.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 15.4g
- Fiber: 4.6g
- Sugar: 5.8g
- Protein: 5.1g
Ratings
- Aggregated Rating: 3.5 stars
- Review Count: 6
Instructions
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Heat the Oil and Cook the Cumin Seeds: Begin by heating some oil in a sauté pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds. Cook them until they start to sizzle and release their fragrant aroma. This should take about 1-2 minutes.
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Cook the Onions: Add the finely chopped onion to the pan. Cook the onion until it becomes tender and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
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Add the Peas and Spices: Stir in the frozen green peas, turmeric, cayenne pepper, ground coriander, and salt. Add the water to the mixture and mix well to combine all the ingredients.
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Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the peas are cooked through and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Add Garam Masala: Stir in the garam masala and cook for a few more minutes until the liquid evaporates. This step adds a final layer of aromatic spice to the dish.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve Sukhi Matar with a variety of dishes such as dal and curries. It pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice, a crisp salad, a selection of warm breads, and an herb plate. Enjoy this spicy and flavorful side dish with your meal.
Culinary Tips and Variations
Spice Level Adjustment: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. Conversely, if you love heat, feel free to add more cayenne or include finely chopped green chilies.
Fresh Peas Option: While frozen peas are convenient, you can use fresh peas when in season. Fresh peas will require a slightly longer cooking time, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.
Herb Garnish: Garnish the finished dish with freshly chopped cilantro for an added burst of freshness and color.
Lemon Zest: For a zesty twist, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dish towards the end of cooking. This will add a subtle tanginess that complements the spices beautifully.
Aromatic Enhancements: Experiment with adding other whole spices like mustard seeds or fenugreek seeds along with the cumin seeds for a more complex flavor profile.
Pairing Suggestions
Main Course Pairings: Sukhi Matar pairs exceptionally well with Indian main courses such as chicken curry, paneer tikka masala, and lamb rogan josh. The spicy peas provide a nice contrast to richer, creamier dishes.
Western Fusion: For a fusion meal, serve Sukhi Matar alongside grilled steaks or roasted chicken. Add a creamy potato dish, like mashed potatoes or gratin, to balance the spice.
Complete Indian Meal: Create a full Indian meal by serving Sukhi Matar with dal, curries, steamed basmati rice, naan or roti, a cucumber raita, and a tangy mango chutney.
Seasonal Adaptations
Spring: Use fresh spring peas if available. Their sweet, tender flavor will add a fresh dimension to the dish.
Summer: Serve Sukhi Matar with a light cucumber and mint salad to complement the heat of the spices.
Winter: Pair the dish with hearty, warming curries and rich, spiced dals for a comforting meal.
Final Thoughts
Indian Spicy Peas (Sukhi Matar) is a versatile and flavorful dish that can elevate any meal, whether it’s a traditional Indian spread or a Western fusion meal. Its ease of preparation and the vibrant combination of spices make it a go-to side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Sukhi Matar is sure to impress with its delightful taste and aroma. Enjoy this dish with family and friends, and let the flavors transport you to the bustling streets and aromatic kitchens of India.
