Aloo Matar is a classic North Indian dish that beautifully combines the simplicity of potatoes (aloo) and green peas (matar) in a luscious, spiced tomato gravy. This comforting vegetarian curry is a staple in many Indian households and is loved for its rich flavors, hearty texture, and ease of preparation.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through making an authentic, restaurant-quality Aloo Matar from scratch.
The vibrant spices and the perfect balance of tangy tomatoes and earthy potatoes make this dish a crowd-pleaser, ideal for everyday meals or special occasions. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and vegan, making it suitable for diverse dietary needs.
Serve it with warm naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice to enjoy a wholesome Indian meal. Let’s dive into the details and discover why this humble recipe deserves a place in your culinary repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Aloo Matar recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and easy to customize. You’ll love it because:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Authentic Flavors: Uses traditional Indian spices for a genuine taste.
- Nutritious: Potatoes and peas provide essential vitamins, fiber, and protein.
- Vegetarian & Vegan: A wholesome plant-based dish suitable for all.
- Adaptable: Can be made dry or with extra gravy depending on your preference.
Ingredients
- 3 medium-sized potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium tomatoes (pureed or finely chopped)
- 1 large onion (finely chopped)
- 2 green chilies (slit, optional for heat)
- 1-inch ginger piece (grated)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or mustard oil recommended)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp amchur powder (dry mango powder, for tanginess)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves (chopped, for garnish)
- Water (as needed for gravy)
Equipment
- Heavy bottom pan or kadai (for cooking the curry)
- Knife and chopping board
- Spoon or spatula (for stirring)
- Measuring spoons
- Grater (for ginger)
- Blender or food processor (optional, for tomato puree)
- Bowl (for soaking or rinsing peas if fresh)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. If using fresh peas, rinse and soak them for a few minutes.
- Heat oil in a heavy bottom pan: Add cumin seeds and let them splutter over medium heat.
- Sauté aromatics: Add finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Then add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add spices: Stir in turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook the spices with the onion mixture for about 1 minute, ensuring they don’t burn.
- Incorporate tomatoes: Add pureed or finely chopped tomatoes. Cook until the oil separates from the masala and the tomatoes are soft (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add potatoes and peas: Mix in diced potatoes and green peas. Coat them well with the masala.
- Add water: Pour in about 1 to 1.5 cups of water depending on your desired gravy consistency. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender and peas are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish with garam masala and amchur powder: Sprinkle these over the curry, mix gently, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Serve hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice.
Tips & Variations
For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
- Use baby potatoes for a sweeter, creamier texture.
- For a dry version, reduce the water and cook until the gravy thickens and clings to the potatoes and peas.
- Add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for more variety and color.
- Try adding a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for an earthy aroma.
- If you prefer a smokier flavor, lightly char the tomatoes before blending.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 40 g |
Protein | 5 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Sodium | 450 mg |
Vitamin C | 25% of RDI |
Serving Suggestions
Aloo Matar pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian breads and rice dishes. For a traditional meal, serve it alongside hot Bread And Gravy Recipe or soft whole wheat rotis.
Steamed basmati rice or jeera (cumin) rice are excellent choices to soak up the delicious gravy. For a more indulgent side, try garlic naan or buttered parathas.
Complement your meal with a cooling cucumber raita or a fresh salad. To explore more hearty recipes, check out the Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe or the delightful Breakfast Wellington Recipe.
Conclusion
Aloo Matar is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a deeply satisfying and flavorful dish. This recipe brings the authentic taste of North Indian cuisine right into your kitchen, with easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress and comfort.
With its vibrant spices and wholesome vegetables, Aloo Matar not only nourishes the body but also delights the senses. Remember, the key to great Indian cooking lies in balancing spices and freshness, and this recipe captures that harmony beautifully.
Try it today and enjoy a taste of India that’s both traditional and timeless!
📖 Recipe Card: Aloo Matar
Description: Aloo Matar is a classic North Indian vegetarian curry made with potatoes and green peas simmered in a spiced tomato gravy. It is flavorful, comforting, and perfect with rice or roti.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds until they splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add turmeric, coriander, red chili powder, and salt; mix well.
- Add pureed tomatoes and cook until oil separates.
- Add diced potatoes and green peas, stir to coat with spices.
- Pour in water, cover, and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Sprinkle garam masala and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 35 g
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