Aloo Matar

With its warm blend of spices and comforting aroma, Indian cuisine never fails to delight the senses. Today, we bring you a classic and heartwarming dish that embodies the essence of traditional Indian cooking – Aloo Matar. This flavorful vegetarian dish combines tender potatoes (aloo) with sweet green peas (matar) in a rich and aromatic spiced gravy. Perfect for a cozy dinner or to impress guests at a gathering, Aloo Matar is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice or crispy roti. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore the delightful flavors of this Indian favorite.

Ingredients:
– 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup fresh or frozen green peas
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 tomatoes, pureed
– 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 2 green chilies, slit
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped for garnish
– 2 tablespoons oil

Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
4. Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil separates.
5. Sprinkle turmeric powder, coriander powder, garam masala, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well to combine the spices.
6. Add the cubed potatoes and green peas to the pan. Stir gently to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
7. Pour in water just enough to cover the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer until the potatoes are tender.
8. Check the seasoning and adjust salt and spices according to your taste preferences.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves before serving.
10. Serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Aloo Matar is a beloved Indian dish that captures the rustic flavors of home-cooked meals enjoyed around family dining tables. The tender potatoes soak up the aromatic spices, while the sweet green peas add a burst of freshness to every bite. Whether you are craving a comforting dinner or planning a festive meal, Aloo Matar is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the warm embrace of Indian flavors with this simple yet oh-so-satisfying recipe.