Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful side dish to elevate your next Indian meal? Look no further! This snow peas recipe brings the vibrant tastes of India to your table in under 20 minutes. It's the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and subtly spicy, making it a delicious addition to any occasion – from a casual weeknight dinner to a more formal gathering. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, even for beginner cooks! Get ready to experience the magic of simple, delicious dishes!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh snow peas, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or coconut oil for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Snow Peas: Wash and trim the snow peas, removing the tough ends. If the peas are particularly large, you can halve them lengthwise for even cooking.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Once they start to splutter (this usually takes about 30 seconds), add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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Bloom the Spices: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, to prevent burning. This step is crucial for unlocking the full flavor of the spices.
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Cook the Snow Peas: Add the trimmed snow peas to the skillet and stir well to coat them with the spice mixture. Add a pinch of salt. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the snow peas are tender-crisp. Don't overcook them, as they should retain a slight bite.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped cilantro and lemon juice (if using). Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite Indian main course, rice, or naan bread.
Tips for the Best Snow Peas:
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh snow peas for the best flavor and texture. Frozen snow peas can be used in a pinch, but they may become slightly mushy when cooked.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked snow peas will be mushy and lose their vibrant green color. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder to your preference. For a milder dish, use less chili powder or omit it altogether.
Variations:
- Add Protein: Toss in some cooked chickpeas or paneer (Indian cheese) for a more substantial side dish.
- Coconut Milk: For a richer flavor, stir in a tablespoon or two of coconut milk at the end of cooking.
- Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or green beans.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 80-100
- Protein: 3-4 grams
- Fiber: 3-4 grams
This snow peas recipe is a great source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy and delicious addition to your diet. It's a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor, making it a perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights. Enjoy this easy and healthy meal! This is one of the best recipes for a vibrant and flavorful side dish. Try it today!