How to Make Carrot Peas Vegetable Mix (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Carrot Peas Vegetable Mix, also known as Gajar Matar ki Sabzi, is a classic North Indian lunch dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of seasonal vegetables. This sabzi is particularly popular in winter when fresh carrots and peas are abundant in Indian markets. It is often enjoyed with roti, paratha, or steamed rice, making it a staple in Indian households. The dish combines sweet and earthy carrots (gajar) with tender green peas (matar), lightly sautéed with aromatic spices like jeera (cumin), haldi (turmeric), and dhania (coriander powder). The result is a wholesome, colorful sabzi that is both comforting and nutritious. Carrot Peas Vegetable Mix is not only delicious but also aligns with India’s tradition of vegetarian cuisine, making it a perfect option for those observing meat-free diets during festivals like Navratri or Makar Sankranti. Its simple preparation and balanced taste appeal to all age groups. This recipe is health-conscious, using minimal oil and fresh ingredients, ensuring that you get the maximum nutritional value with every bite. Whether served for lunch or packed in a tiffin, this sabzi brings together the best of Indian flavors and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 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)
- 1/2 tsp Cumin seeds (jeera) (whole)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1 tsp Coriander powder (dhaniya)
- 1/2 tsp Red chilli powder (lal mirch) (adjust to taste)
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Oil (preferably mustard or sunflower)
- 2 tbsp Fresh coriander leaves (chopped for garnish)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Heat oil in a kadhai or tawa over medium flame
Heat oil in a kadhai or tawa over medium flame. Add cumin seeds (jeera) and let them crackle.
Step 2 · Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent
Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
Step 3 · Add chopped tomatoes and cook till soft and mushy
Add chopped tomatoes and cook till soft and mushy.
Step 4 · Add turmeric
Add turmeric, coriander powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Mix well.
Step 5 · Add diced carrots and green peas
Add diced carrots and green peas. Stir well to coat vegetables with masala.
Step 6 · Cover and cook on low flame
Cover and cook on low flame, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
Step 7 · Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot
Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Why this recipe is healthy
This sabzi is a healthy Indian lunch option because it is vegetarian, low in calories, and high in fiber. Carrots and peas are naturally low in fat and provide essential nutrients without excess calories. Minimal oil and the absence of heavy cream or butter make it lighter than many other Indian dishes. The recipe encourages the use of fresh produce and simple spices, ensuring a wholesome meal suitable for weight loss, diabetes management, and general wellness.
A note on tradition
Gajar Matar ki Sabzi is a winter favorite in North India, especially Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, where fresh carrots and peas are harvested. It is commonly served during festivals like Makar Sankranti, as seasonal vegetables are considered auspicious. The dish is also a popular addition to festive thalis and everyday lunchboxes across India due to its simplicity and nutritional value.