How to Make Carrot Peas Masala (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Carrot Peas Masala, known as Gajar Matar ki Sabzi in Hindi, is a vibrant North Indian lunch dish that celebrates the goodness of seasonal vegetables. Originating from Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, this sabzi is a staple during winter months when fresh carrots and peas are abundant in local markets. Its mildly spiced, aromatic gravy is perfect for pairing with roti, paratha, or steamed rice. The dish is especially popular during festivals like Lohri and Makar Sankranti, when families gather to enjoy nutritious meals together. Carrot Peas Masala is loved for its delightful balance of sweet carrots and tender green peas, cooked with tomatoes, onions, and traditional masalas such as jeera (cumin), haldi (turmeric), and dhania (coriander). The preparation is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious home cooks and those tracking calories. With minimal oil and the natural fiber of vegetables, this sabzi fits perfectly into a vegetarian Indian diet. Its colorful appearance and subtle flavors evoke memories of home-cooked meals and festive gatherings across North India. Whether served with whole wheat atta rotis or as part of a balanced thali, Carrot Peas Masala brings both nutrition and taste to the Indian lunch table. This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing for regional variations and personal preferences, including vegan and kid-friendly options. Its simplicity and wholesome ingredients make it a favorite for those seeking healthy, authentic Indian recipes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup Carrots (gajar) (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup Green peas (matar) (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 medium Tomato (finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Ginger-garlic paste (adrak-lahsun paste)
- 1/2 teaspoon Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1 teaspoon Coriander powder (dhaniya)
- 1/2 teaspoon Red chili powder (lal mirch) (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Garam masala
- to taste Salt
- 1 tablespoon Oil (preferably mustard oil or refined)
- 1 tablespoon Fresh coriander leaves (finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup Water (as needed)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Heat oil in a kadhai or pan on medium flame
Heat oil in a kadhai or pan on medium flame. Add cumin seeds (jeera) and let them splutter.
Step 2 · Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown
Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
Step 3 · Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until raw smell disappears
Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté until raw smell disappears.
Step 4 · Add chopped tomatoes
Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder (haldi), coriander powder (dhaniya), red chili powder, and salt. Cook till tomatoes turn soft and masala is well blended.
Step 5 · Add diced carrots and green peas
Add diced carrots and green peas. Mix well and cook for 2 minutes.
Step 6 · Add 1/2 cup water
Add 1/2 cup water, cover, and simmer on low flame for 8-10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Step 7 · Sprinkle garam masala
Sprinkle garam masala, mix, and cook uncovered for another 1 minute.
Step 8 · Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with atta roti or...
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot with atta roti or steamed rice.
Why this recipe is healthy
This dish is an excellent choice for calorie-conscious eaters due to its high fiber and low-fat profile. The combination of carrots and peas provides sustained energy and keeps you full for longer. The spices used support metabolism, and the absence of heavy cream or butter makes it lighter yet flavorful. Ideal for vegetarian diets, Carrot Peas Masala helps maintain a balanced nutrient intake without compromising taste.
A note on tradition
Carrot Peas Masala is a winter favorite in North India, especially Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, where seasonal vegetables are celebrated. It is commonly prepared during festivals like Lohri and Makar Sankranti, symbolizing abundance and health. The dish is often enjoyed with homemade atta rotis or parathas, forming a nutritious part of everyday meals and festive thalis. Its simplicity and adaptability have made it a staple across urban and rural households.