All About Gajar Matar Recipe

Gajar Matar, also known as Carrot and Pea Curry, is a popular Indian dish that combines the sweetness of carrots with the freshness of peas, cooked in aromatic spices. To make this dish, finely chopped onions are sautéed in oil until golden brown. Then, a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric are added, infusing the base with rich flavors. Next, thinly sliced carrots and green peas are stirred in, coated with the spice mixture. The vegetables are cooked until tender yet slightly crisp.

A touch of tomato paste or diced tomatoes lends a hint of tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the carrots. For added depth, ginger and garlic paste can be incorporated. Once the vegetables are well-cooked, a garnish of fresh cilantro leaves provides a burst of color and a lively aroma.

Gajar Matar pairs well with various Indian breads like roti or paratha, as well as with steamed rice. This classic dish not only offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors but also provides a nutritious serving of vegetables, making it a staple in many households and a beloved part of Indian cuisine.

Ingredients Of Gajar Matar Recipe:

• 2 cups of diced carrots
• 1 cup of green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 large tomatoes, pureed
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2-3 green chilies, slit
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnishing

Step By Step Instructions Of Gajar Matar Recipe:

Step 1: Prepare the Carrots and Peas

Peel and dice the carrots into small, uniform pieces. If using fresh peas, shell them; if using frozen peas, thaw them.

Step 2: Heat the Cooking Medium

In a large pan or pot, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent. Then, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Continue sautéing for another couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.

Step 4: Add the Spice Powders

Lower the heat to prevent the spices from burning. Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Sauté the spices for a minute, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Tomato Puree

Pour in the tomato puree and mix well. Allow the mixture to cook until the oil starts to separate from the sides. This indicates that the tomato puree has cooked down and integrated with the spices.

Step 6: Cook the Carrots and Peas

Add the diced carrots and green peas to the pan. Mix them with the tomato-spice mixture. Season with salt and give it a good stir.

Step 7: Simmer the Curry

Cover the pan and let the vegetables cook on medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If needed, you can add a little water to prevent the curry from becoming too dry.

Step 8: Add Garam Masala

Once the carrots and peas are tender and cooked through, sprinkle garam masala over the curry. Garam masala adds a final layer of rich aroma and flavor.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and give the curry a final stir. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves for a burst of freshness and color.

Your delicious Gajar Matar is ready to be served! It pairs perfectly with steamed rice, naan, roti, or any Indian bread of your choice. Enjoy the medley of flavors and the comfort of this traditional dish.