As the winter chill sets in, the craving for warm, hearty, and nutritious meals grows stronger. Among the many beloved vegetarian dishes that grace Indian dining tables during the cooler months, Gajar Matar Ki Sabzi holds a special place. This simple yet flavorful preparation of carrots and green peas is not only a comfort food favorite but also ranks as one of the easiest and healthiest sabzis you can whip up. It pairs beautifully with both soft rotis and steaming rice, making it a versatile addition to any meal. If you're looking to recreate this homely delight, here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to making the most comforting version right in your kitchen.
Gathering Your Ingredients for Gajar Matar Sabzi
Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary components ready. For this recipe, you will need 2 cups of carrots, 1 cup of green peas (fresh or frozen), 2 tablespoons of cooking oil, and a teaspoon of cumin seeds. The aromatic base comes from 1 small onion (finely chopped) and 1 teaspoon of grated ginger. The quintessential Indian spice mix includes ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1 teaspoon of coriander powder, ½ teaspoon of red chilli powder, and salt to taste. Finally, for the finishing touches, have ½ teaspoon of garam masala and 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped coriander leaves on hand.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
The first step involves preparing the star ingredients. Take the carrots, peel them thoroughly, wash them under running water, and then chop them into small, even pieces. Similarly, wash the green peas if you are using fresh ones. Set both the chopped carrots and peas aside.
Step 2: Temper the Cumin Seeds
Place a pan or kadhai on medium heat and add the oil. Once the oil is warm, add the cumin seeds and allow them to crackle and release their nutty aroma. This process, known as tempering or 'tadka,' forms the flavor foundation of the dish.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, add the finely chopped onion to the pan. Sauté it until it turns soft and achieves a light golden color. This usually takes a few minutes. Then, add the grated ginger and sauté for another few seconds until its raw smell disappears.
Step 4: Add the Ground Spices
Now, it's time to introduce the powdered spices. Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chilli powder, and salt to the pan. Mix everything well with the onion-ginger base and cook for about 2-3 minutes. This allows the spices to cook properly and blend their flavors, eliminating any raw taste.
Step 5: Cook Carrots and Peas
Add the prepared carrots and green peas to the spiced mixture. Gently toss and stir to ensure all the vegetable pieces are evenly coated with the masala. Reduce the heat to a low flame, cover the pan with a lid, and let the sabzi cook for approximately 10 to 12 minutes. The vegetables should become tender but not mushy. If the mixture appears too dry during cooking, you can sprinkle a little water to prevent burning and help with the cooking process.
Step 6: Final Garnish and Serve
Once the carrots and peas are cooked through, uncover the pan. Sprinkle the garam masala over the sabzi and give it a gentle final mix. Turn off the heat. Garnish generously with the fresh, chopped coriander leaves. Your comforting Gajar Matar Ki Sabzi is now ready to be served.
Serving Suggestions and Nutritional Benefits
This vibrant and wholesome sabzi is best enjoyed hot, alongside fresh rotis or parathas. A traditional and delightful way to serve it is with a small piece of jaggery on the side, which complements the slight sweetness of the carrots beautifully. It can also be served with plain steamed rice or jeera rice. Beyond its delicious taste, this dish is a powerhouse of nutrition. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and fiber, while green peas provide plant-based protein and vitamins. Together, they create a healthy, comforting meal that is perfect for the winter season, offering both warmth and wellness in every bite.
