Aloo Matar is a simple yet delicious North Indian curry made with potatoes (aloo) and green peas (matar) simmered in a spiced tomato-based gravy. This comforting vegetarian dish is a staple in Indian households, loved for its homely flavor, wholesome nutrition, and ease of preparation. Whether you are cooking a quick weekday dinner or planning a hearty weekend lunch, Aloo Matar is a timeless classic that never disappoints.
The beauty of this curry lies in its balance – the softness of potatoes, the sweetness of peas, and the warmth of Indian spices all come together in one pot. Pair it with roti, naan, paratha, or steamed basmati rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
❓ Why Choose Aloo Matar?
- Budget-Friendly: Potatoes and peas are affordable, easily available, and always in season.
- Quick & Easy: Minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process make this recipe beginner-friendly.
- Nutritious Combo: Potatoes provide energy-boosting carbohydrates while green peas add protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
- Versatile Dish: Can be made dry or with gravy depending on your preference.
- Comfort Food: The homely, spiced tomato gravy gives a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of traditional Indian kitchens.
🥗 Ingredients Needed
To prepare this Aloo Matar curry recipe, you will need:
- 2 large potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tomatoes (pureed)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 green chilies (slit)
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
- 1 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Method
1. Heat Oil & Temper the Spices
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat oil or ghee. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them crackle to release their aroma – this is the foundation of a flavorful curry.
2. Sauté Onions & Aromatics
Add chopped onions and slit green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Prepare the Tomato Masala
Add tomato puree to the pan and mix well. Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook the masala until the oil separates from the sides, indicating that the spices are perfectly cooked.
4. Add Potatoes & Green Peas
Toss in the cubed potatoes and green peas. Stir well so the masala coats the vegetables evenly.
5. Simmer the Curry
Pour in 1 cup of water and add salt to taste. Cover the pan with a lid and let the curry simmer on low heat until the potatoes become soft and tender.
6. Final Touch of Flavor
Once the curry is cooked, sprinkle garam masala and stir gently. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
7. Serve Hot
Your Aloo Matar curry is ready! Serve it hot with roti, chapati, naan, paratha, or steamed basmati rice.
🌿 Health Benefits of Aloo Matar
- Energy-Rich Meal: Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates that provide sustained energy.
- Fiber Boost: Green peas are high in dietary fiber, aiding digestion and improving gut health.
- Immunity Support: Tomatoes, onions, and Indian spices like turmeric and cumin provide antioxidants and essential vitamins.
- Low in Fat: When cooked with minimal oil, Aloo Matar becomes a light yet filling dish.
- Balanced Nutrition: A perfect vegetarian curry with carbs, proteins, fiber, and micronutrients in one bowl.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
Aloo Matar tastes amazing with:
- Soft roti or chapati
- Steamed basmati rice
- Jeera rice for added flavor
- Parathas for a hearty meal
- A side of yogurt, pickle, or salad to balance the spices
🌟 Recipe Variations
- Dry Aloo Matar: Skip extra water and cook until the masala clings to the potatoes and peas.
- Dhaba-Style Aloo Matar: Add a little cream or butter for a richer, restaurant-like flavor.
- No Onion-Garlic Version: Replace onions and garlic with a pinch of asafoetida (hing) – perfect for fasting or sattvic meals.
- South Indian Twist: Add curry leaves and coconut milk for a flavorful variation.
📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx.)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 7g
- Fiber: 6g
- Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Iron, Potassium
📝 Final Thoughts
The Aloo Matar recipe is proof that the simplest dishes can be the most comforting. With minimal ingredients and basic Indian spices, you can create a wholesome, flavorful, and nutritious meal that everyone in the family will enjoy. Whether you’re new to Indian cooking or a seasoned cook, this curry deserves a regular spot in your weekly menu.
So, the next time you’re looking for an easy yet satisfying curry, try making Aloo Matar at home. Pair it with hot roti or fragrant rice and enjoy the authentic taste of Indian cuisine!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Aloo Matar without onions and garlic?
A: Yes, simply skip onions and garlic, and add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) for flavor.
Q: Can I use canned peas?
A: Yes, but rinse them before use to remove excess preservatives.
Q: How can I make the gravy thicker?
A: Mash one potato into the curry or blend a portion of the cooked masala for a creamier texture.
Q: Is Aloo Matar vegan?
A: Yes, if you cook it in oil instead of ghee, this recipe is 100% vegan-friendly.