Aloo Matar: A Classic Indian Potato and Pea Curry

Aloo Matar is a beloved North Indian dish that combines tender potatoes and sweet green peas in a rich, spiced tomato-based gravy. This comforting curry is a staple in Indian households, known for its simplicity, vibrant flavors, and versatility. Whether you’re new to Indian cuisine or a seasoned cook, this Aloo Matar recipe is a must-try for its ease and deliciousness.

With its hearty texture and aromatic spices, Aloo Matar is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve it with rice, roti, or naan for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Why This Aloo Matar Recipe Works

This Aloo Matar recipe is a winner because it uses pantry-friendly ingredients and comes together in under 45 minutes. The combination of earthy potatoes and sweet peas creates a satisfying balance, while the blend of spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala adds depth and warmth to the dish.

Additionally, this recipe is highly customizable. You can adjust the spice level, add vegetables like carrots or cauliflower, or even make it creamier with a splash of coconut milk or cream. It’s a versatile dish that suits every palate.

What’s In Aloo Matar?

The magic of Aloo Matar lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Potatoes: The star of the dish, providing a hearty and comforting base.
• Green Peas: Add sweetness and a pop of color to the curry.
• Tomatoes: Form the base of the gravy, adding tanginess and richness.
• Spices: A blend of cumin, turmeric, coriander, and garam masala creates the signature flavor.
• Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and ginger form the flavor foundation.
• Fresh Herbs: Cilantro (coriander leaves) for garnish and a fresh finish.

How To Make Aloo Matar

This Aloo Matar recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Here’s how to make it:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes.
2. Finely chop the onions, garlic, and ginger.
3. If using fresh peas, shell them. Frozen peas can be used as is.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics

1. Heat oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
3. Sauté the onions until golden brown, then add garlic and ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes

1. Stir in turmeric, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
2. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down and form a thick sauce, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Potatoes and Peas

1. Add the diced potatoes and stir to coat them in the sauce.
2. Pour in water, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
3. Add the green peas and cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Sprinkle garam masala and stir well.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with rice or bread.

Sides for Aloo Matar

Pair your Aloo Matar with these delicious sides:

• Steamed Basmati Rice: A classic pairing to soak up the flavorful gravy.
• Roti or Naan: Soft and fluffy bread to scoop up the curry.
• Cucumber Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side to balance the spices.
• Pickled Vegetables: Adds a tangy crunch to complement the dish.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I Use Frozen Peas?

Yes, frozen peas work perfectly in this recipe. Add them directly to the curry without thawing.

How Can I Make It Creamier?

For a creamier version, stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end.

How Long Does Aloo Matar Last?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Other Recipes To Try

• Paneer Butter Masala: A creamy and rich curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese).
• Chana Masala: A spicy and tangy chickpea curry.
• Baingan Bharta: A smoky roasted eggplant dish.
• Kadai Mushroom: A flavorful mushroom curry with bell peppers and spices.
• Lauki Kofta: Bottle gourd dumplings in a spiced tomato gravy.

Aloo Matar: Spicy Potato and Pea Curry

This Aloo Matar recipe is a comforting and flavorful Indian curry made with potatoes and green peas in a spiced tomato gravy. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a hearty side dish!

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Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: Indian

Keyword: Vegetarian

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 220kcal

Equipment

Chef's Knife

Chopping Board

Medium Saucepan

Ingredients

• 2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
• 1 cup green peas fresh or frozen
• 1 large onion finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves minced
• 1- inch ginger minced
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp red chili powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

• Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for 30 seconds.
• Add onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
• Add turmeric, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
• Add tomatoes and cook until they form a thick sauce, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add diced potatoes and stir to coat. Pour in 1 cup of water, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
• Add green peas and cook for another 5 minutes.
• Sprinkle garam masala and garnish with cilantro. Serve hot with rice or bread.

Notes

• Spice Level: Adjust the red chili powder to suit your taste.
• Make Ahead: The curry tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Add Vegetables: Try adding carrots, cauliflower, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Creamy Version: Stir in coconut milk or cream for a richer curry.

Nutrition

Calories: 220kcal | Carbohydrates: 32g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 300mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 6g

Enjoy your homemade Aloo Matar! Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!