Keema Matar I

Keema Matar I Recipe - A Delicious Indian Dish with Minced Meat and Peas

Region / culture: India | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Keema Matar is a popular Indian dish made with minced meat and peas, cooked in a flavorful blend of spices. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome meal for the whole family to enjoy.

History

Keema Matar has its origins in Indian cuisine, where it is a staple dish enjoyed by many. The combination of minced meat and peas cooked in aromatic spices has been a favorite among food lovers for generations.

Ingredients

500 g minced meat (keema)
250 g peas (matar)
0.5 tsp turmeric (haldi)
1 tsp red chili powder (lal mirchi)
1 chopped ginger (adrak)
3 green chillies (hari mirch)
1 tsp garam masala
3 large brown cardamom (elaichi moti) crushed
1 cup fresh and thick curd (dahi)
1 pinch of asafetida (hing)
4 tbsp clarified butter (ghee)
coriander leaves (dhania)

How to prepare

Heat ghee in a pan and fry asafetida.
Add salt, green chillies, turmeric, and coriander powder.
Add cardamoms and garam masala, and let it simmer.
Then, add a cup of hot water.
Cover and cook until the water dries and the peas and keema are done.
Garnish with coriander leaves.
Serve hot with naan or chapatis.

Variations

You can add potatoes or carrots to the dish for added texture and flavor.
Try using different types of minced meat such as chicken or lamb for a variation in taste.
Add a dollop of yogurt on top for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

- Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.

- Cooking the keema and peas together allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Keema Matar hot with naan or chapatis for a complete meal. You can also pair it with rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Keema Matar is to cook the minced meat and peas together slowly, allowing the flavors to develop and meld together. Make sure to cover the pan while cooking to retain the moisture and flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have ghee, you can use oil or butter as a substitute. You can also use canned peas instead of fresh peas if they are not in season.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Keema Matar ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Keema Matar with fresh coriander leaves and a sprinkle of garam masala for a beautiful presentation. Serve it in a decorative serving dish for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Keema Matar pairs well with a side of raita, salad, or pickles. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Keema Matar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a pan or microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Keema Matar contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.

Carbohydrates

Keema Matar is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This dish is rich in fats, with each serving containing around 20 grams of fats. The fats come from the ghee used for cooking and the natural fats present in the minced meat.

Proteins

Keema Matar is a protein-packed dish, with each serving providing around 25 grams of protein. The minced meat is a great source of high-quality protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and potassium. The peas add a dose of vitamins and minerals to the dish.

Alergens

This dish contains dairy (dahi) and ghee, which may be allergens for some individuals. Make sure to check for any allergies before consuming.

Summary

Keema Matar is a nutrient-dense dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a wholesome meal option for the whole family to enjoy.

Summary

Keema Matar is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a family meal. Packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this dish is a wholesome option for any occasion. Enjoy the flavors of India with this classic recipe!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own beloved grandmother.

I remember the day like it was yesterday. It was a hot summer afternoon, and the scent of spices wafted through the air as I entered my grandmother's kitchen. She was standing at the stove, stirring a pot of bubbling curry with a look of pure concentration on her face.

"What are you making, Grandma?" I asked, peering over her shoulder.

"Keema Matar," she replied with a smile. "It's a traditional Indian dish made with minced meat and peas. Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I nodded eagerly, my eyes wide with excitement. My grandmother was known for her delicious cooking, and the thought of being able to recreate one of her signature dishes filled me with joy.

She began by showing me how to sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a pan until they were golden brown and fragrant. Then she added a medley of spices – cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala – creating a symphony of flavors that danced in the air.

Next, she added the minced meat, stirring it until it was cooked through and coated in the aromatic spices. Finally, she poured in a can of tomatoes and a handful of fresh peas, letting the mixture simmer until it was thick and rich.

As the fragrance of the Keema Matar filled the kitchen, my grandmother turned to me with a twinkle in her eye. "Now it's your turn, my dear," she said, handing me a wooden spoon.

I hesitated for a moment, unsure if I could replicate her masterful technique. But with her gentle guidance and encouragement, I soon found myself lost in the rhythm of stirring, tasting, and adjusting the seasoning until the Keema Matar was just right.

When we sat down to eat, the dish was a triumph. The flavors were complex and harmonious, each bite a symphony of spice and warmth. I felt a sense of pride swell within me, knowing that I had helped create something so delicious and comforting.

From that day on, Keema Matar became a staple in our household. Whenever we had guests over or celebrated a special occasion, my grandmother would make a big pot of it, and I would assist her in the kitchen, eager to soak up her wisdom and learn from her expertise.

Over the years, I have made Keema Matar countless times, each batch a little different from the last as I experiment with new spices and techniques. But no matter how many times I make it, the memory of that first time – of learning from my grandmother, of creating something beautiful together – will always hold a special place in my heart.

And so, as I stand in my own kitchen now, stirring a pot of bubbling Keema Matar with a smile on my face, I am grateful for the precious gift that my grandmother gave me all those years ago – the gift of her knowledge, her passion, and her love for cooking. And I know that as long as I continue to cook and share her recipes with others, her spirit will always be with me, guiding and inspiring me every step of the way.