Potato Curry with Peas is a comforting and aromatic vegetarian dish that’s perfect for cozy, chilly days. The curry is filled with warm spices like garam masala, turmeric, and fennel seeds, which complement the tender potatoes and peas. Simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish offers a satisfying blend of flavors that will warm you from the inside out. Served with basmati rice or naan bread, this curry is a complete meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 tbsp garam masala
1 ¼ tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp fennel seeds
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp white pepper
4 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp ghee or unsalted butter
2 onions, quartered and sliced
Salt, to taste
8 cloves garlic, pressed
1 tbsp freshly-grated ginger
3 tbsp tomato paste
4 medium-large russet potatoes (about 2 ¾ to 3 lbs), peeled and cut into 1 ½” chunks
6 Campari or Roma tomatoes, cut into chunks
3 ¼ cups chicken or vegetable stock
1 cup frozen green peas, thawed
½ cup cilantro, roughly chopped
1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Green onion (optional garnish)
Sriracha (optional garnish)

Directions

Preheat your oven to medium-high heat. Prepare all your ingredients as per the list above.
In a small ramekin, combine garam masala, turmeric, paprika, fennel seeds, black and white pepper. Set aside.
Heat olive oil and ghee (or butter) in a large Dutch oven or deep pan. Add onions with a pinch of salt, and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened.
Add the spice mixture, garlic, and ginger to the onions, stirring for 30-45 seconds until aromatic.
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 30 seconds. Then, add potatoes, tomatoes, and mix well to coat them in the spice-tomato mixture.
Add the stock and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the curry simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until potatoes are tender.
Add peas, cilantro, and lemon juice, and stir to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes to heat through.
Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, and garnish with green onion or sriracha if desired.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 296 kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 8g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 800mg

The Role of Spices in Potato Curry with Peas

One of the most defining elements of Potato Curry with Peas is its blend of spices. These spices not only elevate the flavor profile of the dish but also provide a wealth of health benefits. Garam masala, a traditional Indian spice mix, forms the heart of the curry’s flavor, offering warmth and complexity. The addition of turmeric imparts a beautiful golden color while providing anti-inflammatory properties, which is a hallmark of many Indian dishes. Fennel seeds add a subtle sweetness and a slight anise-like flavor, which complements the earthiness of the potatoes. Paprika gives the curry a mild smokiness, balancing out the richness of the other spices. Black and white pepper enhance the overall depth of the curry, while the ginger and garlic provide an aromatic kick that’s essential to Indian cuisine.

The Versatility of Potatoes in Curry

Potatoes are the star ingredient in this curry, offering both substance and flavor. As a versatile vegetable, potatoes soak up the spices and flavors of the curry sauce, providing a tender and satisfying texture with every bite. When cooked properly, potatoes hold their shape while absorbing the rich, aromatic sauce, making them a perfect base for the dish. They are not only filling but also offer a comforting element to the curry, making it perfect for cozy dinners. In addition, potatoes are rich in nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to this vegetarian dish.

The Nutritional Value of Potato Curry with Peas

While this curry is undeniably delicious, it’s also packed with nutrients that support overall health. The dish provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Potatoes are a great source of carbohydrates, which provide energy for the body. The addition of green peas brings a boost of protein and fiber, making this dish not only tasty but also satisfying. The curry’s spices contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties, and the use of olive oil and ghee provides healthy fats that support heart health. With a moderate calorie count per serving, this curry is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a fulfilling yet wholesome meal.

How to Perfectly Cook the Potatoes

To make sure your Potato Curry with Peas turns out perfectly, it’s essential to cook the potatoes just right. Begin by peeling and cutting them into evenly-sized chunks to ensure they cook at the same rate. When the curry is simmering, the potatoes should be tender but not mushy, maintaining their texture while absorbing the flavors of the sauce. The key to achieving this is to simmer the curry gently over low heat, allowing the potatoes to cook slowly and thoroughly. Stir occasionally to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pan, and ensure they are evenly coated with the aromatic sauce.

Adding Peas for Texture and Flavor

Green peas are a wonderful addition to Potato Curry, providing a natural sweetness and a pop of color. They complement the potatoes beautifully, offering a slight crunch and a contrast in texture. Peas also contribute a good source of protein and fiber to the dish, making it more filling and nutritious. The peas should be added towards the end of the cooking process to avoid overcooking, which would cause them to lose their vibrant color and texture. Once added, the peas should be stirred in and heated through, allowing them to take on the flavor of the curry while maintaining their crispness.

Serving Suggestions for Potato Curry with Peas

Potato Curry with Peas is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. The most traditional accompaniment is basmati rice, which absorbs the curry sauce and balances out the rich flavors. The fluffy, aromatic rice complements the tender potatoes and peas, making it the perfect base for the curry. If you’re looking for a more indulgent option, naan bread is an excellent choice. Its soft, pillowy texture is perfect for scooping up the curry, allowing you to enjoy every last bite. You can also garnish the curry with fresh cilantro for added color and flavor, and a squeeze of lemon juice can help brighten the dish and add a refreshing tang.

How to Make the Curry Even Richer

For those who enjoy a richer flavor, adding a bit of cream or coconut milk to the curry can enhance its creaminess and bring an extra layer of indulgence to the dish. Coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness and a velvety texture, which works particularly well with the spices in the curry. You can stir in a small amount of cream at the end of the cooking process for a luxurious finish or use coconut milk to replace part of the vegetable stock for a more pronounced coconut flavor. Adjust the amount of liquid according to your desired consistency for the curry sauce.

Variations of Potato Curry with Peas

While the traditional Potato Curry with Peas is a simple and comforting dish, it can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences or tastes. For a spicier kick, you can add chopped green chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper to the curry. If you prefer a heartier version, consider adding protein-rich ingredients like tofu or paneer, which will absorb the curry’s flavors and provide additional texture. To make the dish even more colorful, you can add other vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, or bell peppers. The beauty of this curry lies in its flexibility, allowing you to make it your own while still preserving the essential flavors of the dish.

Making Potato Curry with Peas Ahead of Time

Potato Curry with Peas is an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time. Like many stews and curries, it actually tastes better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together. If you’re planning to serve it for a dinner party or special occasion, you can make the curry a day in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve. The curry can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. When reheating, simply warm the curry over low heat, adding a little extra stock or water if needed to restore its desired consistency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Potato Curry with Peas is a hearty and flavorful vegetarian dish that is perfect for anyone seeking a comforting, wholesome meal. Its blend of warm spices, tender potatoes, and sweet peas makes it a satisfying and nutritious option for both casual meals and special occasions. Whether you serve it with rice or naan, this curry is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. With its versatility and ease of preparation, Potato Curry with Peas is a dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of their dietary preferences. So why not try making this fragrant, delicious curry at home and enjoy the comforting flavors of Indian cuisine in your own kitchen?

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