Gajar Matar Sabzi
A vibrant and comforting North Indian stir-fry of sweet carrots and tender green peas. This simple, everyday sabzi comes together quickly and is perfect with hot rotis or parathas for a wholesome meal.
For 4 servings
3 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Masala Base
- b.Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and allow them to splutter for about 20-30 seconds until fragrant.
- c.Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
- d.Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- e.Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix everything well.
- f.Cook this masala mixture for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down completely and you see oil separating from the sides of the masala.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook the Vegetables
- b.Add the diced carrots and green peas to the prepared masala. Stir for 2 minutes to ensure the vegetables are well-coated.
- c.Pour in 1/4 cup of water, stir, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- d.Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let the vegetables cook for 12-15 minutes.
- e.Stir every 4-5 minutes to prevent sticking. Cook until the carrots are tender but still retain a slight bite. If the mixture looks too dry, you can add another splash of hot water.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove the lid.
- c.Sprinkle the garam masala and freshly chopped coriander leaves over the sabzi.
- d.Gently mix everything together and cook for one more minute to allow the flavors to meld.
- e.Turn off the heat. Let the sabzi rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- f.Serve hot with fresh rotis, parathas, or as a side dish with dal and steamed rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a sweeter, more authentic taste, use seasonal red 'Delhi carrots' if available.
- 2Do not overcook the carrots; they should be fork-tender but not mushy to maintain a good texture.
- 3If using frozen peas, add them during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking as they cook much faster than fresh peas.
- 4For a tangy twist, add 1/2 teaspoon of amchur (dry mango powder) along with the garam masala at the end.
- 5To make the dish richer, you can add a tablespoon of cream or cashew paste in the final step.
Adapt it for your goals.
Aloo Gajar Matar
Add one medium potato, diced, along with the carrots for a more filling and classic Punjabi version of the dish. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.
With PaneerWith Paneer
Add 100g of cubed paneer in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a protein-rich variation. Lightly pan-fry the paneer cubes before adding for better texture.
No Onion, No GarlicNo Onion, No Garlic
For a Sattvic version, skip the onion and ginger-garlic paste. Add a pinch of asafoetida (hing) to the hot oil after the cumin seeds splutter.
Creamy VersionCreamy Version
For a slightly richer, semi-gravy dish, add 2-3 tablespoons of full-fat cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking and simmer for 2 minutes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin A
Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A. This vitamin is crucial for maintaining good vision, a healthy immune system, and skin health.
Good Source of Fiber
Both carrots and green peas are high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, supporting weight management.
Plant-Based Protein
Green peas are a valuable source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair, building tissues, and overall body function, making this dish a great option for vegetarians and vegans.
Boosts Immunity
The combination of Vitamin A from carrots, Vitamin C from tomatoes and peas, and antioxidants from spices like turmeric helps strengthen the immune system and protect the body against infections.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Gajar Matar Sabzi is very healthy. It's packed with vitamins and fiber from carrots and peas. Carrots are an excellent source of Vitamin A, and peas provide plant-based protein and fiber. It's a nutritious, low-calorie dish perfect for a balanced meal.