Are you looking for delicious and easy Indian recipes? Peas, or matar as they're known in Hindi, are a staple in Indian cooking, lending their sweet and subtle flavor to a wide array of dishes. From vibrant curries to comforting sides, peas offer a versatile and healthy addition to your meal plan. This post explores some of the best and most accessible recipes featuring peas, perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and special occasions. Get ready to discover the magic of Indian cuisine with these simple and flavorful recipes!
Simple and Tasty Matar Paneer
This classic vegetarian dish is a favorite for its creamy texture and rich flavors. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and offers a healthy and delicious alternative to takeout.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 200g paneer (Indian cheese), cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a vegan option)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat the oil in a pan or pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the ginger and garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Add the frozen peas and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Gently stir in the paneer cubes.
- Pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk and season with salt. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan bread.
Cooking Tip: For a richer flavor, you can use ghee (clarified butter) instead of vegetable oil.
Quick and Healthy Matar Pulao
This one-pot rice dish is perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight meal. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a delicious and satisfying choice.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 cup basmati rice, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 cups water
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat the ghee or oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Stir in the carrots, peas, tomatoes, garam masala, and turmeric powder. Season with salt.
- Pour in the water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot.
Cooking Tip: Soaking the basmati rice for 30 minutes before cooking will help it cook evenly and result in a fluffier pulao.
Variations and Nutritional Information
Both recipes can be easily adapted to your preferences. Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or spinach. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of chili powder.
Nutritional information will vary depending on the ingredients used, but both dishes are generally low in fat and high in protein and fiber, making them healthy additions to a balanced diet. Enjoy experimenting with these delicious and versatile pea recipes! They're sure to become a staple in your kitchen.