Degi Matar Masala is a rich, flavorful North Indian dish made with green peas cooked in a spicy, aromatic tomato-based gravy. This recipe is perfect for those who love bold and authentic flavors, as it uses special Degi masala to enhance the taste.

Ingredients

- 2 cups green peas (fresh or frozen)

- 2 medium-sized onions, finely chopped

- 2 medium-sized tomatoes, finely chopped

- 2 green chilies, finely chopped

- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 2-3 bay leaves

- 2-3 cloves

- 1-inch cinnamon stick

- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

- 1 teaspoon red chili powder

- 1 teaspoon coriander powder

- 1 teaspoon garam masala

- 1/2 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

- Salt to taste

- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions

1.   Preparation

   - If using fresh peas, boil them until tender. If using frozen peas, thaw them and set aside.

2.  Tempering the spices

   - Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.

   - Add cumin seeds, bay leaves, cloves, and the cinnamon stick. Sauté until the spices release their aroma.

3.   Cooking the base

   - Add the chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.

   - Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.

   - Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil starts to separate from the mixture.

4.   Adding the spices

   - Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a few minutes until the spices are well incorporated.

5.   Cooking the peas

   - Add the green peas to the pan and mix well with the masala. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.

   - Add a little water to achieve the desired consistency and bring it to a boil.

   - Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6.   Finishing touches

   - Add garam masala and kasuri methi to the curry. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.

   - Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Serving

Degi Matar Masala pairs wonderfully with rice, roti, or naan. Enjoy this hearty and aromatic dish with your favorite sides!

Tips for the Best Degi Matar Masala

• Use fresh green peas for the best taste, but frozen peas work well too.

• Adjust spice levels according to your preference.

• For a richer texture, add a little cream at the end.

• Serve with a side of onion salad and lemon wedges for extra zest.

(FAQ's)

1. What is Degi mirch, and can I substitute it?
   Degi mirch is a special red chili powder that gives color and mild heat. You can use Kashmiri red chili powder as a substitute.

2. Can I make this recipe without curd?
   Yes, you can skip curd and use a bit of fresh cream or coconut milk for a different texture.

3. How can I make Degi Matar Masala more flavorful?
   Slow-cooking the masala and using kasuri methi enhances the flavor significantly.

4. Is this dish vegan?
   To make it vegan, replace curd with coconut yogurt or skip it altogether.

5. Can I prepare this in advance?
   Yes! Degi Matar Masala tastes even better the next day as flavors develop over time.

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this delectable curry! If you have any questions or need more recipes, feel free to ask. 🍛

Gajar ka halwa also known as carrot halwa, is a rich and delicious Indian dessert made with grated carrots, milk, sugar, and ghee. It is a popular sweet dish, especially during winters, and is often prepared for festive occasions and celebrations. The slow-cooked process enhances the natural sweetness of carrots, making this dessert truly irresistible.

Why Gajar Ka Halwa?

This traditional sweet is loved for its creamy texture and rich flavors. Made with simple ingredients, it is a comforting dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia. The addition of ghee and dry fruits makes it even more indulgent and perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients 

To make authentic Gajar ka Halwa, you need:

• 4 cups grated carrots
• 2 cups full-fat milk
• ½ cup sugar (adjust as per taste)
• 3 tablespoons ghee
• ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
• 10-12 cashews
• 10-12 almonds (sliced)
• 10-12 raisins
• ¼ cup khoya (optional, for richness)

Cooking Method

1.   Preparation

   

- Wash, peel, and grate the carrots. It's best to use a fine grater for a smoother texture.

2.   Cooking the carrots

   - In a large heavy-bottomed pan, add the grated carrots and milk.

   - Cook on medium heat until the milk comes to a boil. Stir occasionally.

   - Reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring frequently, until the milk is completely absorbed by the carrots.

3.   Adding the sugar and ghee

   - Once the milk is absorbed, add the sugar and stir well.

   - Continue cooking on low heat, stirring occasionally.

   - Add the ghee and mix thoroughly.

   - Cook until the ghee starts to separate from the halwa and the mixture thickens.

4.  Garnishing 

   - In a separate small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee.

   - Add the cashew nuts, almonds, and raisins. Fry until they are golden brown.

   - Add these to the halwa along with cardamom powder and mix well.

5.  Serving

   - Serve hot, garnished with a few more nuts on top if desired.

Health Benefits of Gajar Ka Halwa

• Rich in Vitamin A: Carrots improve vision and skin health.
• Good Source of Energy: Contains healthy fats and carbohydrates.
• Calcium-Rich: Milk and khoya provide essential nutrients.
• Festive Favorite: A guilt-free indulgence when made with moderate sugar and ghee.

Serving Suggestions

Gajar ka halwa is best enjoyed:

• Warm or chilled
• With a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• As a festive dessert for celebrations

Final Thoughts

Gajar ka halwa is a timeless Indian dessert that brings joy and sweetness to any occasion. Whether it's a festival or a family gathering, this rich and flavorful treat is always a hit!

(FAQ's)

1. Can I make Gajar Ka Halwa without milk?
   Yes, you can use almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

2. How do I make Gajar Ka Halwa quickly?
   Use a pressure cooker or instant pot to reduce cooking time.

3. Can I freeze Gajar Ka Halwa?
   Yes, store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to a month.

4. What type of carrots are best for halwa?
   Red, juicy carrots (Delhi carrots) are ideal for authentic taste and texture.

5. Can I use condensed milk instead of sugar?
   Yes, condensed milk adds sweetness and creaminess while reducing cooking time.

Aloo Matar is a simple yet flavorful North Indian curry made with potatoes (aloo) and green peas (matar) cooked in a spiced tomato-based gravy. This comforting dish is easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with roti, naan, or steamed rice. It is a staple in Indian households and is loved for its rich taste and minimal ingredient requirement.

Why Aloo Matar?

Aloo Matar is a budget-friendly, wholesome dish that provides a balance of carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients. The combination of soft potatoes and sweet green peas in a fragrant, spiced curry makes it a perfect meal for any day.

Ingredients Required

To prepare a delicious Aloo Matar curry, 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 garam masala
• ½ teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
• 1 cup water
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Cooking Method

1. Heat Oil & Temper Spices: In a pan, heat oil or ghee. Add cumin and mustard seeds, letting them splutter.
2. Sauté Onions & Ginger-Garlic Paste: Add chopped onions and green chilies, sautéing until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes & Spices: Pour in tomato puree and add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook until the oil separates from the masala.
4. Add Potatoes & Peas: Toss in cubed potatoes and green peas, mixing well to coat them in the masala.
5. Simmer the Curry: Add water and salt, cover, and let it cook on low heat until potatoes are tender.
6. Final Touch: Stir in garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
7. Serve Hot: Enjoy Aloo Matar with roti, naan, or steamed rice.

Health Benefits of Aloo Matar

• Good Source of Energy: Potatoes provide essential carbohydrates for sustained energy.
• Rich in Fiber: Green peas support digestion and gut health.
• Packed with Antioxidants: Tomatoes and spices add vitamins and minerals beneficial for immunity.
• Low in Fat: A great option for a light yet satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

Aloo Matar tastes best with:

• Roti or chapati
• Steamed basmati rice
• Paratha for a hearty meal
• A side of yogurt or pickle for extra flavor

Final Thoughts

Aloo Matar is an easy, delicious, and comforting dish that suits any occasion. Whether for a weekday meal or a special dinner, this curry is a perfect choice. Try making it today and savor the authentic flavors of Indian cuisine!

(FAQ's)

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 a thicker gravy?
A: Add a mashed potato or blend a portion of the cooked curry for a creamier texture.

Q: Is this dish vegan?
A: Yes, if you use oil instead of ghee, Aloo Matar is completely vegan.

Short Description: A comforting and flavorful Indian curry made with potatoes and green peas in a spiced tomato gravy. Perfect with roti or rice! #AlooMatar #IndianFood #Vegetarian

Dal fry is a popular Indian lentil dish that is not only nutritious but also packed with flavors. Made with toor dal (pigeon peas) or a mix of lentils, it is tempered with aromatic spices and herbs, giving it a rich and comforting taste. Dal fry is a staple in Indian households and pairs perfectly with rice or roti, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal.

Why Dal Fry?

Dal fry is not just delicious but also highly nutritious. It is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians. The combination of lentils with fragrant spices creates a heartwarming dish that is both healthy and easy to prepare.

Ingredients Required

To make a delicious dal fry, you will need:

• 1 cup toor dal (pigeon peas) (washed and soaked for 30 minutes)
• 3 cups water (for cooking dal)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 tomatoes (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chilies (slit)
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 dry red chili
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish)
• Salt to taste
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1 teaspoon kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) (optional)

Cooking Method

1. Cook the Dal: In a pressure cooker or pot, add soaked toor dal with turmeric and water. Cook until soft (about 2-3 whistles in a pressure cooker). Mash slightly and set aside.
2. Prepare the Tempering: Heat ghee or oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, dry red chili, and bay leaf. Let them splutter.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add onions and green chilies, sautéing until onions turn golden brown. Then, add ginger-garlic paste and cook until fragrant.
4. Cook the Tomatoes & Spices: Add tomatoes, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until tomatoes become soft and the oil separates.
5. Combine Dal and Simmer: Add the cooked dal to the pan. Mix well and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
6. Final Touches: Stir in garam masala, kasuri methi, and lemon juice. Mix well and garnish with fresh coriander.
7. Serve Hot: Enjoy dal fry with steamed rice, jeera rice, or roti.

Health Benefits of Dal Fry

• Rich in Protein: Lentils provide essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair.
• High in Fiber: Aids digestion and supports gut health.
• Heart-Friendly: Low in fat and cholesterol, making it good for heart health.
• Packed with Nutrients: Contains iron, folate, and essential vitamins.

Serving Suggestions

Dal fry pairs best with:

• Steamed basmati rice
• Jeera rice
• Roti or naan
• A side of pickle and salad

Final Thoughts

Dal fry is an easy-to-make, nutritious, and comforting dish that is perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this flavorful dal fry will never disappoint. Try it today and enjoy its rich taste and aroma.

(FAQ's)

Q: Can I use other lentils for dal fry?
A: Yes! You can use moong dal, masoor dal, or a mix of lentils for different flavors.

Q: How can I make dal fry spicier?
A: Add more green chilies or increase the red chili powder as per your preference.

Q: Can I make dal fry without ghee?
A: Yes, you can use oil or even butter for a different taste.

Q: Can I prepare dal fry in advance?
A: Yes, you can store it in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat before serving.

Soya chunks pulao is a wholesome and protein-packed dish that brings together the goodness of soy protein with aromatic basmati rice and flavorful spices. This one-pot meal is not only delicious but also an excellent vegetarian alternative for those looking to add more protein to their diet. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a lunchbox meal, soya chunks pulao is easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.

Why Choose Soya Chunks Pulao?

Soya chunks, also known as meal maker or textured vegetable protein (TVP), are a powerhouse of protein and fiber. They absorb flavors beautifully, making them an ideal addition to pulao. This dish is not only nutritious but also quick to make, requiring minimal ingredients while delivering maximum taste.

Ingredients Required

To prepare a delicious soya chunks pulao, you will need:

• 1 cup basmati rice (soaked for 20 minutes)
• ½ cup soya chunks (soaked and squeezed)
• 1 onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 tomato (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 2 green chilies (slit)
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 2-3 cloves
• 1-inch cinnamon stick
• 2-3 cardamom pods
• ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• ½ teaspoon red chili powder
• ½ cup mixed vegetables (optional, such as peas, carrots, and beans)
• 2 tablespoons yogurt or coconut milk (optional, for a richer taste)
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Method

1. Prepare the Soya Chunks: Soak the soya chunks in hot water for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess water and set aside.
2. Sauté the Spices: Heat oil or ghee in a pressure cooker or deep pan. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom. Sauté until fragrant.
3. Cook the Aromatics: Add sliced onions and sauté until golden brown. Then, add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, cooking until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add Tomatoes & Spices: Stir in chopped tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala. Cook until the tomatoes turn soft and the oil separates.
5. Incorporate Soya Chunks & Vegetables: Add the prepared soya chunks and mixed vegetables, mixing well to coat them in the masala.
6. Add Rice & Water: Drain the soaked rice and add it to the pan. Stir gently and pour in water or vegetable broth. Add salt and yogurt or coconut milk for extra richness.
7. Cook the Pulao: Cover and cook for 2 whistles in a pressure cooker or simmer on low heat until the rice is fully cooked and fluffy.
8. Garnish & Serve: Fluff the pulao with a fork, garnish with fresh coriander leaves, and serve hot with raita or pickle.

Health Benefits of Soya Chunks Pulao

• High Protein Content: Soya chunks provide a great plant-based protein source, making this dish ideal for vegetarians.
• Rich in Fiber: The combination of rice, vegetables, and soya chunks helps with digestion and keeps you full longer.
• Heart-Healthy: Soya is known to reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
• Low in Fat: This pulao can be made with minimal oil, making it a healthy meal choice.

Serving Suggestions

Soya chunks pulao pairs well with:

• Chilled cucumber raita
• Spicy green chutney
• A side of crispy papad
• A simple salad for added crunch
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Final Thoughts

Soya chunks pulao is an easy-to-make, nutritious, and flavorful meal that satisfies both taste and health goals. Whether you are looking for a quick weekday meal or a protein-rich dish for your family, this pulao is a perfect choice. Try it today and enjoy the delicious blend of spices, rice, and protein-packed soya chunks.

(FAQ's)

Q: Can I make soya chunks pulao in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes, follow the same steps and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then release the pressure naturally.

Q: How can I make soya chunks pulao spicier?
A: Add more green chilies or increase the quantity of red chili powder as per your preference.

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?
A: Yes, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Q: Is this pulao vegan?
A: Yes, if you skip ghee and yogurt or use coconut milk as a substitute.

Short Description: A flavorful and protein-rich soya chunks pulao made with basmati rice, aromatic spices, and vegetables. Perfect for a healthy and delicious meal. #SoyaChunksPulao #VegetarianRecipe #ProteinRichFood