Green Pea Curry is a delightful vegetarian dish bursting with flavors and vibrant colors. In this recipe, I make a dry spice blend and an onion-based gravy separately. Then the peas are simmered in the aromatic gravy and rich spice blend.
What is Green Pea Curry?
Green Pea Curry is a rich and flavorful Indian-inspired dish made with tender green peas simmered in a spiced, creamy gravy. The curry incorporates a unique blend of whole spices, fresh herbs, and plant-based ingredients to create a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. It’s a versatile recipe, ideal as a side dish or a main course for a vegetarian or vegan meal.
Why I love making Green Pea Curry
I love making Green Pea Curry because it’s a simple yet elegant dish that can be prepared with everyday ingredients. The fresh aroma of roasted spices and the vibrant color of the peas make it a feast for the senses. This recipe also allows me to experiment with plant-based alternatives, ensuring it’s healthy and cruelty-free without compromising on taste.
Green Pea Curry
Equipment
- Wok or wide pan
- One Set of measuring cups
- Set of Measuring Spoons
- Cutting Boards and Knives
Ingredients
Masala (Spice Blend):
- 1 tbsp cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp fennel seeds
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 3 to 4 cloves
- 1- inch cinnamon stick
- 3 to 4 green cardamom pods
- 4 to 5 black peppercorns
Gravy Paste:
- 2 cups about 2 medium-sized onions thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp plant-based yogurt
- 2 tbsp ginger garlic paste
- ⅓ cup Fresh coriander leaves
- 2 green chilies( skip for mild curry)
- 2 tablespoon oil
Main Dish:
- 2 tbsp oil
- ½ cup cashew halves
- 2 cups green peas fresh or frozen
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 2 tsp Kashmiri red chili powder or paprika
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp kasuri methi dried fenugreek leaves
For Garnish:
- ½ cup chopped cilantro
- Chopped cashews
- 1 tbsp cashew yogurt
Instructions
- Prepare the Dry Masala:
- Dry roast cumin seeds, fennel seeds, coriander seeds, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and black peppercorns.
- Grind them into a fine powder and set aside.
- Make the Gravy Paste:
- Heat 2 tablespoon oil in a wok or wide pan and fry the sliced onions until golden brown.
- Transfer the fried onions to a blender. Add plant-based yogurt, fresh coriander leaves, ginger garlic paste, and green chilies. Blend into a smooth paste. Use water to blend as needed. Set aside.
- In a large pan heat 2 tablespoon of oil
- Stir in the fresh green peas and cook for a few minutes.
- Add prepared dry masala, kasoori methi, turmeric powder, and Kashmiri red chili powder. Mix and sauté well.
- Add the gravy paste to the peas and spices. Stir to combine.
- Add cashew halves
- Season with salt and add 1 to 2 cups of water. Bring to boil and simmer cook on low heat for 10 to 15 minutes till peas are tender.
- Finish and Serve:
- Sprinkle kasuri methi over the dish and mix well—taste for salt and seasonings.
- Garnish with your choice of chopped cilantro, cashews, and a dollop of cashew yogurt.
- Serve hot as a side dish.
Video
Notes
What is needed to cook Green Pea Curry?
Main Ingredients:
- Fresh green peas
Fresh Ingredients:
- Onions
- Green chilies
- Fresh coriander leaves
- Plant-based yogurt
- Ginger and garlic paste
Whole Spices:
- Cumin seeds
- Fennel seeds
- Coriander seeds
- Cloves
- Cinnamon stick
- Green cardamom pods
- Black peppercorns
Ground Spices:
- Turmeric powder
- Kashmiri red chili powder
Other Essentials:
- Oil
- Cashew halves
- Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
- Salt
- Water
For Garnish:
- Chopped cilantro
- Chopped cashews
- Cashew yogurt
How I cook my Green Pea Curry
I start by dry roasting a blend of spices like cumin, fennel, and cinnamon until they release a fragrant aroma. After grinding them into a fine powder, I move on to prepare the gravy. I sauté onions in oil until golden brown and then blend them with plant-based yogurt, fresh coriander leaves, ginger garlic paste, and green chilies to create a smooth paste.
In the same pan, I cook the fresh green peas with turmeric and chili powder, stirring in the prepared masala powder to enhance the flavor. Then, I add the creamy gravy paste and cashew halves, seasoning everything with salt and water. After a few minutes of simmering, I finish the dish with dried fenugreek leaves, fresh cilantro, and cashew yogurt.
Try My Other Healthy Vegan Vegetable Curries
Green Beans with Potatoes Curry
Aloo Gobi Curry (Cauliflower with Potatoes)
Mushroom Do Pyaza ( Vegan Mushroom Curry)
Vegan Zucchini with White Beans Curry
Reasons to Love Green Pea Curry
-It’s entirely plant-based, making it vegan-friendly.
-Bursting with the goodness of fresh peas, it’s highly nutritious.
-The homemade spice blend adds depth and authenticity to the dish.
-It’s versatile and pairs well with both rice and bread.
-The recipe is easy to customize for various dietary preferences.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
– Always roast whole spices on low heat to release their natural oils and aroma.
– Blend the gravy paste until silky smooth for a creamy texture.
– Use fresh green peas for the best flavor; frozen peas can be a substitute.
– Adjust the chili and spice levels to suit your taste preference.
– Garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Why you should try this recipe
This Green Pea Curry is a must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful vegan dish that doesn’t compromise on taste. The fresh green peas are a powerhouse of nutrition, offering vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. The plant-based yogurt and cashews add a creamy texture, making it indulgent yet healthy. With the aromatic spices, this curry transforms into a hearty meal that’s perfect for all ages. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a wholesome, cruelty-free dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions about Green Pea Curry
Q1. Can I use frozen peas instead of fresh peas?
A1. Yes, frozen peas work well as a substitute. Thaw them before cooking for the best results.
Q2. I do not eat onions and garlic. Can I still make this dish?
A2. Absolutely! You can skip the onions and garlic and use more cashews and yogurt for the gravy base.
Q3. How spicy is this curry?
A3. The spice level is mild to moderate. You can adjust the green chilies and chili powder to your taste.
Q4. Can I prepare this curry in advance?
A4. Yes, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Q5. What can I serve with Green Pea Curry?
A5. It pairs wonderfully as a side dish with any meal.
Q6. Can I make this recipe oil-free?
A6. You can use a non-stick pan and water to sauté the onions instead of frying them.
Q7. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
A7. The recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t include any wheat-based ingredients.
Q8. Can I add other vegetables to this curry?
A8. Absolutely! Potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers can be great additions.
