Masala Matar

Introduction

History

Masala Matar has been a staple in North Indian cuisine for generations. The combination of peas and spices cooked in a rich tomato gravy is a classic comfort food that is loved by many.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to fry the spices well to enhance their flavors.

- Adjust the amount of green chillies according to your spice preference.

- Adding a little water while cooking the peas helps them cook evenly and prevents them from sticking to the pan.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Masala Matar hot with steamed rice or roti. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the peas in the tomato gravy helps them absorb the flavors of the spices.

- Covering the pan while cooking helps retain the moisture and prevents the dish from drying out.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes for convenience.

- Substitute ghee for oil for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Masala Matar can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Masala Matar with a sprinkle of garam masala and a drizzle of cream for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Masala Matar pairs well with jeera rice, pulao, or naan bread. Serve with a side of raita or salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Masala Matar in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Fats: 10g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 5g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Masala Matar is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Masala Matar is a nutritious dish that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great source of plant-based protein and is low in calories.

Summary

Masala Matar is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Masala Matar. It was a warm summer afternoon, and I was visiting my friend, Priya, in her little village in India. Priya was an amazing cook, and she had promised to teach me how to make one of her favorite dishes.

As we walked through the bustling market, the aroma of spices filled the air. I could hear the vendors calling out to passersby, selling their fresh produce and colorful spices. Priya led me to a small stall where a kind old woman was selling bags of fresh green peas. She explained to me that Masala Matar was a classic Indian dish made with peas and a blend of aromatic spices.

We gathered all the ingredients we needed – peas, tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and a variety of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Priya showed me how to prepare the vegetables, chop the onions finely, and crush the garlic and ginger into a paste.

In a large pot, Priya heated some oil and added the spices, letting them sizzle and release their flavors. The kitchen was filled with the rich scent of cumin and turmeric as she added the onions, garlic, and ginger. The tomatoes went in next, their juices mingling with the spices to create a fragrant base for the dish.

Finally, Priya stirred in the peas and let them simmer in the spicy tomato sauce until they were tender and coated in the flavorful masala. The dish was simple yet so delicious, with the sweetness of the peas balanced by the heat of the spices.

I watched in awe as Priya cooked, her hands moving with ease and confidence. She explained the importance of using the right amount of each spice, of letting the flavors meld together slowly over a gentle heat. I could see the love and care she put into each step, and I knew that this dish would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

After the Masala Matar was done cooking, Priya scooped it into bowls and we sat down to eat. The peas were tender and bursting with flavor, the sauce thick and rich with spices. I couldn't believe that such a delicious dish could be made with just a few simple ingredients.

As we ate, Priya shared with me the story of how she had learned to make Masala Matar from her own grandmother. She told me about the days she spent in her grandmother's kitchen, watching and learning as she cooked traditional Indian dishes with skill and love.

Listening to Priya's stories, I felt a connection to my own grandmother, who had also been a wonderful cook. I remembered the hours I had spent by her side in the kitchen, watching and helping as she whipped up delicious meals for our family. I realized that the recipes I had learned from her were more than just a list of ingredients – they were a link to my past, to the traditions and flavors that had shaped me into the cook I was today.

After that day, Masala Matar became a regular dish in my own kitchen. I would make it for my family and friends, savoring the memories of that summer afternoon in Priya's village. Every bite of the spicy peas reminded me of the bond I shared with my grandmother, of the love and passion we both had for cooking.

And so, whenever I make Masala Matar, I am transported back to that warm summer day, to the sights and sounds of the bustling market, to the taste of the fragrant spices mingling with the sweet peas. It is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring. And I am grateful for the tradition and love that have been passed down to me through the simple act of cooking.

Categories

| Masala Recipes | Pakistani Recipes | Pakistani Vegetarian | Pea Recipes |

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