Aloo Matar Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to Making Delicious Potato and Pea Curry

When it comes to classic Indian comfort food, the aloo matar recipe is a timeless favorite. This hearty and flavorful potato and pea curry is a staple in households across the country. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, our comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to create the perfect aloo matar dish that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

Ingredients needed to make the aloo matar recipe:

To get started, gather these essential ingredients:

• 2 cups of peas (fresh or frozen)
• 3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Follow these steps for a perfect aloo matar:

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
• Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Add the turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Stir well and cook for a couple of minutes until the oil separates from the spices.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil starts to release from the sides of the mixture.

Step 5: Potatoes and Peas

Add the diced potatoes and peas to the mixture. Stir to coat them evenly with the spice mixture.

Step 6: Simmer

• Pour in enough water to cover the potatoes and peas. Season with salt to taste.
• Cover the pan and let the curry simmer on medium-low heat until the potatoes are tender and the peas are cooked through. This should take about 15–20 minutes.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Once the curry is ready, garnish it with fresh coriander leaves.
• Serve your delicious homemade aloo matar hot with steamed rice or warm rotis.

Notes:

Vegan and Gluten-Free: This Aloo Matar recipe is both vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Instant Pot Option: If you have an Instant Pot or pressure cooker, you can make this recipe more quickly. Simply adjust the cooking time according to your appliance’s instructions.

Make-Ahead: Aloo Matar can be prepared in advance and reheated. It’s a convenient option for meal planning and busy weeknights.

Variations: You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing Leftovers: Leftover Aloo Matar can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Spice Level: The spiciness of the curry can be tailored to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit green chilies.

Doubling the Recipe: This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for larger gatherings or meal prep for the week.

Tips:

Choosing Potatoes: Select potatoes that are firm and not too starchy for the best texture. Varieties like Russet, Yukon Gold, or Idaho work well.

Peeling Potatoes: You can peel the potatoes if you prefer a smoother texture in the curry. However, leaving the skin on is also an option for added texture and nutrition.

Green Peas: Fresh or frozen green peas both work for this recipe. If using frozen peas, there’s no need to thaw them; they can be added directly to the curry.

Spices: Adjust the spice level to your preference. You can increase or decrease the amount of chili powder and green chilies to suit your taste.

Cooking Time: Be mindful of the cooking time for the potatoes. Overcooking them can result in a mushy texture. Cook until they are tender but still hold their shape.

Creaminess: The creamy texture of the curry comes from the tomato gravy. Make sure the tomatoes are well-cooked and blended to achieve a smooth consistency.

Serving Suggestions: Aloo Matar pairs well with various Indian breads like naan, roti, or paratha. It also goes perfectly with steamed rice.

Garnish: Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Now that you have the ultimate guide to making aloo matar, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and whip up this mouthwatering dish. Enjoy your culinary journey and the delightful flavors of homemade aloo matar!