Are you looking for a vibrant, healthy, and incredibly delicious side dish or light meal? Look no further! This Sugar Snap Pea recipe infuses the sweetness of fresh sugar snap peas with the warm, aromatic spices of Indian cuisine. It's a perfect example of how easy and satisfying homemade cooking can be. This recipe is ready in under 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Prepare for a flavour explosion that will elevate your dinner game!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh sugar snap peas, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Spice Awakening
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them splutter for about 15 seconds, releasing their incredible aroma. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base.
Step 2: Spice Infusion
Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala to the skillet. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds, ensuring the spices are well toasted and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
Step 3: Pea Perfection
Add the trimmed sugar snap peas to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are tender-crisp and bright green. Don't overcook them; you want to retain their vibrant color and slightly crunchy texture.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Stir in the chopped cilantro and lemon juice. Season with salt to taste. Give everything a final mix, ensuring the peas are evenly coated with the delicious spice blend.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Sugar Snap Pea Delight immediately as a delightful side dish with rice, roasted chicken, or fish. You can also enjoy it as a light vegetarian meal on its own.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Fresh is Best: Use the freshest sugar snap peas possible for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure there's enough space in the skillet for the peas to cook evenly. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili powder to your preferred level of spiciness. For a milder dish, reduce or omit it altogether.
Variations:
- Garlic Ginger Zing: Add a tablespoon of minced garlic and ginger to the skillet along with the spices for an extra layer of flavor.
- Coconut Cream Dream: Stir in a tablespoon of coconut cream at the end for a richer, creamier dish.
- Nutty Delight: Add a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds or cashews for added crunch and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a good source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the quantity of oil and spices used. A rough estimate per serving is around 80-100 calories, with low fat and high fiber content. This makes it a healthy and satisfying addition to any balanced diet.
This simple yet flavorful Indian-spiced Sugar Snap Pea recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Its speed and ease make it perfect for any day of the week, and its delicious taste will impress everyone at the table. Enjoy!