Snow peas are a delightful and crunchy vegetable that can be transformed into a flavorful Indian dish with just the right blend of spices and simple cooking techniques. If you’re looking for a healthy, vibrant, and easy-to-make side dish, this Indian-style snow peas recipe is perfect for you.
Combining the freshness of snow peas with aromatic spices like mustard seeds, cumin, and green chilies, this recipe delivers a burst of flavor that complements any Indian meal.
Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare. It retains the crispness of the snow peas while infusing them with a gentle warmth and zest from the spices, making it a wonderful addition to your weekly menu.
Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence. Let’s dive into this easy and tasty way to enjoy snow peas the Indian way!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Indian snow peas recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, needing just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
The gentle tempering of mustard seeds and cumin adds a lovely depth of flavor, while fresh green chilies give it a mild kick without overwhelming the dish.
Snow peas cook in minutes, retaining their crunch and vibrant green color, which makes the dish visually appealing as well. It’s a versatile side that pairs well with rice, roti, or even as a topping for salads and wraps.
Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. This recipe will become a staple in your kitchen for a quick and healthy vegetable side.
Ingredients
- 250 grams snow peas, washed and trimmed
- 1 tablespoon oil (mustard oil or vegetable oil works well)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for a fresh tang)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Equipment
- Non-stick frying pan or wok
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Bowl for washing snow peas
Instructions
- Prepare the snow peas: Rinse the snow peas thoroughly under cold water. Trim the ends and remove the stringy fiber along the pod if present.
- Heat the oil: Place your pan on medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Let it warm up but avoid smoking.
- Temper the spices: Add the mustard seeds to the hot oil. When they begin to pop, add the cumin seeds and chopped green chili. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add turmeric and chili powder: Sprinkle in the turmeric powder and red chili powder, stirring quickly to combine with the oil and seeds. This step infuses the oil with color and flavor.
- Cook the snow peas: Add the snow peas to the pan and stir well to coat them evenly with the spices. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 4-5 minutes until the peas are tender but still crisp.
- Season and finish: Add salt to taste and stir again. If you like a hint of tanginess, drizzle the lemon juice over the cooked snow peas and mix gently.
- Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh coriander leaves on top for a burst of color and aroma. Serve warm alongside your favorite Indian dishes.
Tips & Variations
Always use fresh snow peas to ensure crispness and sweetness in the dish.
For a nuttier flavor, try adding a teaspoon of roasted peanuts or cashews during the tempering stage. You can also toss in a pinch of asafoetida (hing) along with the cumin seeds to enhance digestion and flavor.
If you prefer a bit more spice, increase the amount of green chili or add a pinch of garam masala at the end of cooking for warmth and complexity.
For a variation, try mixing in some grated coconut towards the end for a South Indian twist. Alternatively, combine the snow peas with other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to make a colorful medley.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 70 kcal |
Protein | 3 g |
Carbohydrates | 10 g |
Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
Fat | 3.5 g |
Vitamin C | 60% DV |
Iron | 8% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This Indian snow peas dish pairs beautifully with steamed basmati rice or jeera (cumin) rice for a wholesome meal. You can also enjoy it alongside Indian breads like chapati or naan to add a crunchy vegetable side.
For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of mixed greens or as a topping on grain bowls. It complements dals (lentil soups) perfectly, balancing the richness with its fresh, crisp texture.
Try pairing it with Aloo Gobi, Dal Tadka, or Baingan Bharta for a complete Indian meal experience.
Conclusion
This Indian snow peas recipe is a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without compromising on flavor. Its quick preparation time and simple ingredients make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
The tempering of spices enhances the natural sweetness and crunch of the snow peas, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Whether you’re preparing a weekday dinner or a festive meal, this recipe fits perfectly into any occasion. With its versatility and vibrant taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Give it a try, and enjoy a fresh, spicy, and healthy side that celebrates the best of Indian cooking traditions.
📖 Recipe Card: Indian Style Snow Peas
Description: A quick and flavorful Indian stir-fry using fresh snow peas and aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish or light snack.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 250g snow peas, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or mustard)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 green chili, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add chopped green chili and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and garam masala; stir well.
- Add snow peas and salt; toss to coat with spices.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are tender but crisp.
- Turn off heat and add lemon juice and chopped cilantro.
- Mix well and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 80 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 7 g
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