Aloo Peas Sabji

Detailed Aloo Peas Sabji (Aloo Matar) Recipe (Sattvik Style)

Aloo Matar is a nostalgic, universally cherished curry. The natural sweetness of the green peas contrasts perfectly with the dense, starchy potatoes in a mild, extremely soothing gravy free of onions and garlic.

1. Ingredients

• Potatoes (Aloo): 3 medium (peeled and diced into medium cubes).
• Green Peas (Matar): 1 cup (fresh or thawed frozen peas).
• Tomatoes: 2 medium (pureed into a smooth paste).
• Ghee or Oil: 2 tablespoons.
• Cumin Seeds: 1 tsp.
• Ginger: 1/2 inch (finely grated).
• Green Chilies: 1 (slit).
• Turmeric Powder: 1/2 tsp.
• Coriander Powder: 1 tsp.
• Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: 1/2 tsp.
• Garam Masala: 1/2 tsp.
• Water: 1.5 cups.
• Salt: To taste.
• Fresh Coriander: Handful, for garnish.

2. How to Cook - Step-by-Step Guidance

Step 1: Sauté the Potatoes Heat a drop of oil in a pan. Lightly fry the potato cubes for 4-5 minutes until their edges turn pale golden. Remove and set aside. (This helps them hold their shape in the final gravy).

Step 2: Tempering and Aromatics In the same pan, heat the remaining ghee. Add cumin seeds. When they splutter, add the ginger and green chili. Sauté for a few seconds.

Step 3: Sauté the Spices and Tomato Reduce heat. Ad turmeric, coriander powder, and Kashmiri chili powder directly into the oil for 5 seconds to bloom their color, then immediately pour in the tomato puree to prevent burning.

Step 4: Cook the Base Cook the tomato and spice mixture until it thickens slightly and the oil separates on the borders (about 5-7 minutes). Add salt.

Step 5: Simmer the Vegetables Add the fried potatoes and fresh green peas into the thick tomato base. Pour in 1.5 cups of hot water. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer aggressively on low heat for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are completely tender and the peas are bright and sweet.

Step 6: The Final Touch Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the garam masala and stir softly. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before offering.

3. What are the Health Benefits?

• Balanced Nutrition: Green peas are a superb source of vegetarian protein to balance the heavy carbohydrates of the potatoes.
• Sustained Energy: This sabji digests slowly, keeping you energetic and full for hours, making it an excellent lunch dish.
• High Fiber: Peas contain significant amounts of dietary fiber, promoting an excellent bowel run and regulating cholesterol.

4. Who Can Avoid?

• Gas & Bloating Issues (Vata): Peas can sometimes cause bloating. Ensure they are exceptionally well-cooked and never omit the ginger and cumin, as they specifically counteract this effect.