How to Make Aloo Matar – A Classic Indian Potato and Pea Curry

 

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Introduction

Craving a comforting, home-cooked Indian meal? Aloo Matar – also spelled aloo mutter – is a beloved North Indian curry made with two humble ingredients: potatoes (aloo) and green peas (matar). Simmered in a spiced tomato-onion gravy, this vegetarian dish is perfect for pairing with roti, paratha, or rice.

Whether you're a seasoned curry lover or a beginner in Indian cooking, this dish is a must-try. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to make aloo matar from scratch, using ingredients easily found in UK supermarkets. The recipe uses British English spelling, follows Google SEO best practices, and is suitable for vegans and vegetarians alike.

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Table of Contents

1. What Is Aloo Matar?

2. Ingredients You’ll Need

3. Step-by-Step Recipe

4. Cooking Tips and Variations

5. Serving Suggestions

6. Nutritional Information

7. Final Thoughts

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1. What Is Aloo Matar?

Aloo Matar is a traditional Indian curry made with boiled potatoes and green peas simmered in a fragrant tomato-based gravy. It’s a simple, wholesome dish often served in Indian households and restaurants alike.

Its popularity lies in its simplicity. Despite being made with everyday ingredients, it packs a punch in terms of flavour, thanks to the classic Indian spice blend that forms the base of the gravy.

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2. Ingredients You’ll Need

All of the ingredients listed below are widely available in the UK at stores like Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, or any Asian supermarket.

Fresh Produce:

3 medium potatoes (peeled and cubed)

1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)

2 medium tomatoes (finely chopped or puréed)

1 large onion (finely chopped)

1 tsp fresh ginger-garlic paste

Spices & Seasonings:

2 tbsp vegetable oil or ghee

1 tsp cumin seeds

½ tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp ground coriander

1 tsp garam masala

½ tsp red chilli powder (adjust to taste)

Salt to taste

2 cups water

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

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3. Step-by-Step Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare a flavourful Aloo Matar curry in under 40 minutes.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and cube the potatoes.

Chop the onions and tomatoes.

If using frozen peas, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes and drain.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place the cubed potatoes in a saucepan. Cover with water and boil for 7–8 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Base

1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large pan over medium heat.

2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.

3. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

4. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices

1. Add chopped or puréed tomatoes to the pan.

2. Mix in turmeric, red chilli powder, ground coriander, and salt.

3. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the oil starts to separate from the masala.

Step 5: Add Potatoes and Peas

1. Add the boiled potatoes and green peas.

2. Stir well to coat with the masala.

3. Pour in 2 cups of water and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 6: Simmer and Finish

Cover and cook for 10–15 minutes on low heat until the curry thickens.

Sprinkle garam masala and mix gently.

Garnish with chopped fresh coriander.

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4. Cooking Tips and Variations

✅ Use Fresh or Tinned Tomatoes

For richer flavour, use fresh tomatoes or tinned chopped tomatoes. You can also use tomato passata for a smoother gravy.

✅ Add Cream or Coconut Milk

For a creamier version, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream or a splash of coconut milk towards the end.

✅ Make It Spicier

Adjust the heat by increasing the amount of red chilli powder or adding a chopped green chilli to the onion base.

✅ Pressure Cooker or Instant Pot

You can make this dish faster in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot. Sauté the base, add all ingredients, and pressure cook for 3–4 whistles or 5 minutes in Instant Pot mode.

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5. Serving Suggestions

Aloo Matar is versatile and can be served in several ways:

With Chapati or Roti – For a classic Indian meal.

With Basmati Rice – A hearty lunch or dinner option.

With Jeera Rice – Adds a subtle cumin flavour.

With Paratha – For a richer, weekend-style meal.

Don’t forget to serve with a side of onion salad, plain yoghurt, or mango pickle for extra flavour.

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6. Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient Approximate Value

Calories 220–250 kcal

Carbohydrates 30–35g

Protein 5–6g

Fat 8–10g

Fibre 5–6g

Sugar 3–4g

Salt 1–1.5g

Note: Values depend on portion size and ingredients used.

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7. Final Thoughts

Aloo Matar is a heart-warming, budget-friendly curry that’s ideal for any day of the week. Whether you're looking to add more vegetarian meals to your diet or simply want to enjoy a comforting curry, this dish is perfect.

It’s easy to cook, full of flavour, and made using pantry staples that you can find in any British kitchen. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of authentic Indian cuisine in your own home!

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Write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.