Carrot Peas Sabzi
Lunch • India
How to Make Carrot Peas Sabzi (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Carrot Peas Sabzi, or Gajar Matar ki Sabzi, is a vibrant vegetarian dish from North India, celebrated for its simplicity, nutritional value, and delicious taste. Made with fresh gajar (carrots) and matar (peas), this sabzi is a staple during the winter months when both vegetables are in peak season across Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. The dish is lightly spiced with traditional masalas like jeera (cumin), haldi (turmeric), and dhania (coriander), making it aromatic and flavorful without overwhelming the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Carrot Peas Sabzi is commonly served as a lunch main alongside chapati, phulka, or steamed rice. It is a popular choice during festivals like Lohri and Makar Sankranti, where winter produce is celebrated in regional kitchens. The sabzi’s vibrant colors and mild flavors appeal to all ages, making it a family favorite. Its quick preparation and minimal oil make it ideal for health-conscious individuals and calorie trackers. In many North Indian homes, this sabzi is lovingly cooked on a tawa and enjoyed with homemade roti, embodying the warmth and simplicity of Indian home-cooked meals. This recipe is not only authentic but also health-conscious, perfect for those looking to balance nutrition and taste. With every bite, you experience the sweetness of carrots, the earthiness of peas, and the harmonious blend of Indian spices, making it a go-to recipe for wholesome lunches and festive occasions.
Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl (approx. 200g))
- 1.5 cups Carrots (gajar) (peeled and diced)
- 1 cup Green peas (matar) (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 medium Tomato (finely chopped)
- 1 tsp Ginger (adrak) (grated)
- 1/2 tsp Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1 tsp Coriander powder (dhania)
- 1/4 tsp Red chilli powder (lal mirch) (adjust to taste)
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Mustard oil (or any neutral oil)
- 2 tbsp Fresh coriander leaves (chopped, for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Heat mustard oil in a tawa or kadhai over medium flame. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2 minutes
Use mustard oil for authentic North Indian flavor.
- 2
Add chopped onions and grated ginger. Sauté until onions turn translucent.
3 minutes
Do not brown the onions; keep them soft for a mellow taste.
- 3
Add chopped tomatoes. Cook until tomatoes soften and oil starts separating.
4 minutes
Cover for faster cooking and richer flavor.
- 4
Add turmeric, coriander powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Mix well and sauté for a minute.
1 minute
Roasting the spices releases their aroma.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This sabzi is a healthy choice because it uses seasonal vegetables, minimal oil, and traditional Indian spices. It’s high in fiber, vitamins, and plant protein, supporting weight management and heart health. The absence of processed ingredients and its low calorie density make it ideal for calorie-conscious eaters. Its nutrient-rich profile is perfect for lunch, aiding digestion and sustaining energy throughout the day.
Carrot Peas Sabzi is packed with nutrients. Carrots are rich in vitamin A, beta-carotene, and fiber, supporting vision and digestive health. Green peas add plant-based protein, vitamins C and K, and minerals like iron and phosphorus. The dish is low in saturated fat, uses minimal oil, and is naturally cholesterol-free. It provides complex carbohydrates, essential for sustained energy, and antioxidants that help boost immunity. Incorporating this sabzi into your diet promotes a balanced intake of macros and micronutrients.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use winter carrots for greater sweetness and color.
- 💡Tip 2: Cook on low flame to retain nutrients and crunchiness.
- 💡Tip 3: Garnish with fresh coriander for extra flavor and freshness.
Storage & Serving
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on a tawa or in a microwave before serving. Avoid freezing as the texture of peas and carrots may change.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 120.0 kcal |
