Dive into the aromatic world of Indian cuisine with this delectable dish, Keema Matar. Originating from the heart of Indian kitchens, this recipe marries the richness of minced meat with the vibrant flavors of peas, tomatoes, and a symphony of spices.
While it may sound complex, fear not, as this recipe is perfect for beginners eager to explore the realm of Indian cooking.
Keema, meaning minced meat, and Matar, referring to peas, come together in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
With its origins deeply rooted in Indian culinary traditions, Keema Matar has long been cherished as a comforting and nourishing dish, often served with freshly baked naan or steamed rice.
Despite its exotic flavors, this recipe is surprisingly simple to master, making it an ideal choice for both weekday dinners and special occasions alike.
Expert Tip: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your garnishes! Try topping your Keema Matar with toasted almonds, crispy fried onions, or a drizzle of mint chutney for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Minced Meat: Minced meat provides a rich and hearty base for Keema Matar. Its savory flavor and tender texture perfectly complement the vibrant spices and vegetables, creating a satisfying dish that will leave you craving more.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding a subtle richness to the dish, olive oil helps to enhance the flavors of the spices and ingredients while keeping the dish light and healthy.
Cumin Seeds (Jeera): These tiny seeds pack a punch of earthy and nutty flavor, adding depth to the dish. When sautéed in oil, cumin seeds release their aromatic oils, infusing the dish with a warm and fragrant essence.
Ginger Paste: Known for its zesty and slightly spicy flavor, ginger paste adds a delightful kick to our Keema Matar. It also helps to tenderize the meat and balance out the other flavors in the dish.
Garlic: A staple in many savory dishes, chopped garlic lends its pungent and aromatic flavor to our Keema Matar. It adds complexity and depth to the dish, elevating its overall taste.
Onions: Finely diced onions serve as the flavorful foundation of our dish, imparting a sweet and savory base. When cooked down, onions become soft and caramelized, adding richness and depth to the sauce.
Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy tomatoes bring a burst of tangy sweetness to our Keema Matar. They help to balance out the richness of the meat and spices, adding brightness to the dish.
Bullet Chillies: These small but mighty chillies pack a fiery punch, adding heat and intensity to our Keema Matar. Finely sliced and added towards the end of cooking, bullet chillies infuse the dish with a subtle yet satisfying kick.
Peas (Frozen): Sweet and tender, frozen peas add a pop of vibrant green color and a touch of sweetness to our Keema Matar. They also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the meat and spices.
Spices: This combination of spices forms the backbone of our Keema Matar, infusing the dish with warmth, depth, and complexity. Each spice brings its own unique flavor profile to the dish, resulting in a harmonious blend of tastes and aromas.
Coriander: Freshly chopped coriander adds a burst of freshness and herbal aroma to our Keema Matar. Sprinkled on top as a garnish, coriander adds a pop of color and a hint of citrusy flavor, elevating the dish to new heights.
Expert Tip: For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of coconut milk or cream towards the end of cooking. This adds richness and creaminess to the dish, taking it to the next level.
Expert Tip: To enhance the flavor of the spices, dry roast them in a pan before adding them to the dish. This helps to release their essential oils and intensify their aroma.
Yes, ground beef can be substituted for minced meat in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you use.
While frozen peas are convenient and work well in this recipe, you can certainly use fresh peas if they’re in season. Simply blanch them briefly in boiling water before adding them to the dish.
The level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of chilli powder or omit the bullet chillies altogether. Conversely, if you like it hot, feel free to increase the amount of chilli powder or add extra bullet chillies.
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Latest comments (3)
When a recipe say add cream I avoid making this meal as I’m unable to have cream , any suggestions please . Thanks
My husband found you on youtube and is a biiig fan of all your dishes he has cooked for me. Today i made this for him on our first day of ramadan and wow was it a pleaser. Allah bless you for sharing your recipes.
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a kind comment! I am thrilled to hear that you and your husband enjoyed my recipe and that it was a hit on your first day of Ramadan. It’s comments like these that make sharing my recipes so worth it! May Allah bless you and your family as well, and happy cooking!