Recipes by Rupa Sethu

Masala Peas

Have you ever wondered why peas always seem to get cast in a supporting role and rarely get center stage? Well, I have a lovely dish for you to try that uses peas as the main ingredient. Masala Peas is as simple as it is nutritious and full of flavor. There are no other ingredients like Paneer, Potatoes, or Mushrooms that would delegate the peas to sidekick status. Rather, the peas remain the main event. And let me tell you, it’s delicious!

A pan full of spiced Masala Peas

First let’s talk about peas. We all have a bag of frozen peas in the freezer (whether you eat them or use them in lieu of ice packs for booboos!). If you don’t, you should. The ultimate luxury for me when I first came to the United States over 30 years ago was the fact that I never had to shell peas ever again (unless I wanted to). This is easy, people! Added to the convenience is the fact that peas are super nutritious. This is from the USDA:

USDA Nutrition facts on peas

Ingredients

In order to make Masala Peas, you will need:

  • A tbsp of neutral oil (I use Canola)
  • 2 tsp of cumin seeds
  • 1 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 inch ginger, minced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped
  • 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tbsp of no salt added tomato paste
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin powder
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • 2 cups of frozen peas
  • 2 tbsp roasted, unsalted cashew halves
  • a handful of cilantro, chopped

Method

  • Start with a tablespoon of neutral oil in a sauté pan, on medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and let it sizzle.
  • Now add the onion, ginger, garlic and green chili and sauté till the onions are starting to brown. Don’t rush this step.
  • At this point, add the tomato paste, the fresh tomatoes, and all the spices. Let cook for another couple of minutes.
  • Mix in the frozen peas, cover and cook for another 5 minutes or so on medium heat. You can turn the heat down to low and let cook for another 10 minutes or so. You want to make sure that the peas lose their raw taste.
  • Finally, uncover and garnish with the cashews and cilantro. Masala peas is done!

No salt added while cooking so if you must, salt the plate! Masala Peas is typically served as part of an Indian meal with dal, rice and roti. Alternatively, you can top your toast with the Masala Peas and enjoy a vegan, low sodium, gluten free treat that will wake up your taste buds!