Green Peas Curry, also known as Pachai Pattani Curry in Tamil or Vatana Curry in other parts of India, is a flavorful and aromatic vegetarian dish made with tender green peas cooked in a rich, spiced gravy. This curry is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re cooking with fresh green peas or using dried green peas (vatana), this recipe offers flexibility and delicious results.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through how to make Green Peas Curry from scratch, ensuring it’s full of flavor and easy to prepare. If you’re a fan of hearty curry dishes, don’t miss our Aloo Gobi Recipe or Sattu Kachori Recipe, which offer a similar blend of spices and flavors.
What is Green Peas Curry?
Green Peas Curry, or Pachai Pattani Curry, is a popular dish in Indian households. It is made with fresh green peas or dried green peas (vatana) that are cooked in a spiced, flavorful tomato-based gravy. The curry can be made mild or spicy based on your preference, and it’s often enjoyed with chapati, rice, or even puris.
The use of green peas in curries is quite common, especially in North India, and the dish is considered both comforting and healthy due to the high fiber and protein content of peas.
For a related curry recipe, you might also want to try our Motor Dal Recipe, which features green peas paired with paneer (Indian cottage cheese).
Ingredients for Green Peas Curry
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Green Peas Masala Curry:
For the Green Peas Curry:
- Green peas (fresh or dried green peas): 2 cups (fresh or soaked overnight if using dried green peas)
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
- Tomato: 1 large, chopped
- Ginger-garlic paste: 1 tablespoon
- Green chili: 1, slit (optional)
- Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
- Red chili powder: 1 teaspoon (adjust to your spice level)
- Coriander powder: 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala: 1 teaspoon
- Cumin powder: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: To taste
- Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Water: 2 cups (adjust as needed)
- Fresh coriander leaves: For garnishing
For the Tempering (Tadka):
- Mustard seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Dry red chilies: 2-3
- Curry leaves: A few (optional)
- Hing (asafoetida): A pinch
How to Make Green Peas Curry: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Green Peas
If you’re using dried green peas (vatana), soak them in water overnight and cook them in a pressure cooker for about 3-4 whistles until soft. If you’re using fresh green peas, you can skip this step and add them directly to the curry.
Step 2: Sauté the Spices
- Heat oil in a pan or pressure cooker over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. If you want to add mustard seeds, you can do so at this stage for an additional flavor.
- Add dry red chilies, curry leaves, and a pinch of hing. Stir them in the hot oil for a few seconds.
Step 3: Cook the Onions, Ginger, and Tomatoes
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Add chopped tomatoes, red chili powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook the mixture until the tomatoes soften and the oil starts separating from the masala (spice mix).
Step 4: Add the Green Peas and Water
- Add the cooked green peas (fresh or soaked and cooked dried green peas) to the masala.
- Add water to adjust the consistency of the curry. You can make it thicker or thinner, depending on your preference.
- Stir well and bring the curry to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the green peas to absorb the spices and flavors from the gravy.
Step 5: Add Garam Masala and Garnish
- Add garam masala to the curry and mix well.
- Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes before removing it from the heat.
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Step 6: Serve the Green Peas Curry
Serve the Green Peas Masala Curry with hot chapati, paratha, or steamed rice. For a richer meal, pair it with a side of Cucumber Raita or a simple Kachumber Salad.
Tips for Making Perfect Green Peas Curry
How to Make Green Peas Curry with Dried Green Peas
If you’re using dried green peas (vatana), make sure to soak them overnight to reduce the cooking time. You can either cook them in a pressure cooker or on the stovetop until they are soft and tender.
Adjust the Spice Level
If you prefer a milder curry, reduce the quantity of red chili powder and green chilies. You can also add a teaspoon of sugar to balance out the spices and add a touch of sweetness.
Add Coconut Milk for Creaminess
For a creamy twist, you can add coconut milk at the end of cooking to give the curry a rich texture. This is particularly good if you’re making the curry with dried green peas.
Use Fresh Green Peas
Fresh green peas cook much faster and retain a vibrant color. If you’re using frozen peas, make sure to thaw them before adding them to the curry to ensure even cooking.
For more delicious Indian curry recipes, be sure to explore our Paneer Butter Masala and Chole Masala Recipe for more variety!
How to Store and Reheat Green Peas Curry
Green Peas Curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a little water to restore the consistency. The flavors of the curry get even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.
Serving Suggestions for Green Peas Curry
Green Peas Curry pairs well with:
- Chapati or Paratha: Soft, flaky Indian flatbreads that perfectly complement the spicy curry.
- Steamed Rice: Serve with plain rice or jeera rice for a wholesome meal.
- Raita or Salad: A refreshing side like Cucumber Raita or a Simple Green Salad can balance out the spices.
Green Peas Curry is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, whether you’re cooking with fresh green peas or dried green peas. With its rich spices and nutritious ingredients, it’s a comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. Give this green peas masala curry a try and enjoy a traditional Indian meal in the comfort of your own home!
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