The roots of green peas curry go back to the heart of Indian cuisine, where seasonal vegetables were celebrated in aromatic gravies. Green peas, known as matar in Hindi, were once a winter delicacy in northern India. Farmers would harvest them fresh and cook them with onions, tomatoes, and a medley of spices to create a warm, comforting meal.
Over time, this dish spread across India, evolving into countless regional versions — from the creamy green peas curry Kerala style, infused with coconut milk, to the robust green peas masala dhaba style, which is often found in roadside eateries across North India.
At Shalimar Phuket, our chefs draw inspiration from these regional recipes, combining the comfort of home-cooked food with the rich, restaurant-style flavor that guests love.
Fresh and Vibrant Green Peas
Green peas may look small, but they’re nutritional powerhouses. They’re packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and vitamins, making green peas curry not only delicious but also a healthy option.
If you’re conscious about your diet, you’ll be pleased to know that the green peas calories are moderate — a typical serving ranges between 180–250 calories, depending on how much oil or cream is used. That’s a balanced choice for anyone seeking nutritious comfort food without compromising taste. If you are interested in soup recipes then this eel soup recipe is best for you.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create the perfect green peas curry recipe at home, you don’t need any fancy ingredients. Here’s a list of essentials that bring the dish to life:
- 1½ cups of green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Coriander leaves for garnish
- ½ cup coconut milk or cream (optional, for Kerala-style curry)
These simple ingredients come together to form a thick, flavorful gravy that pairs beautifully with rice, roti, or naan.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Here’s a simple, authentic way to prepare this dish — the same method our chefs use in the Shalimar Phuket kitchen:
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until aromatic.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and cook for another minute.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the mixture releases oil — this forms the curry’s base.
- Mix in all the spices: red chili, turmeric, coriander, and salt.
- Add the green peas and stir well so they’re coated with the masala.
- Pour in about one cup of water (or coconut milk for a green peas curry Kerala style twist).
- Cover and cook on low heat for 10–12 minutes, until the peas are tender and the gravy thickens.
- Sprinkle garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
That’s it — your green peas curry is ready to serve!
Green Peas Curry Kerala Style
In the southern state of Kerala, coconut milk and curry leaves transform the basic green peas gravy into something silky and aromatic. Known locally as green peas curry Malayalam, it’s often enjoyed with appam, puttu, or Kerala parotta.
The Kerala version adds a tropical twist, with the creaminess of coconut milk balancing the gentle heat of green chilies and spices. It’s a must-try variation, especially if you love rich, comforting curries that remind you of coastal India’s culinary warmth.
At Shalimar Phuket, our chefs prepare green peas curry Kerala style for guests who crave a soothing, coconut-based dish that pairs beautifully with steamed rice.
Green Peas Masala: The Bold, Spicy Cousin
If you prefer a slightly drier, spicier dish, green peas masala is a perfect option. It uses the same ingredients as the curry but with less water, creating a thick, flavorful masala that clings beautifully to every pea.
Many food lovers enjoy green peas masala dry as a side dish with chapati or jeera rice. The green peas masala recipe has countless variations — from the creamy restaurant version to the fiery green peas masala dhaba style that’s famous along Indian highways.
At Shalimar Phuket, we often serve both versions:
- A rich, saucy green peas masala curry for guests who enjoy gravies.
- And a spicy green peas masala dry version for those who love intense flavors and a thicker texture.
Tips for the Perfect Green Peas Cury
Making a great curry is all about small details. Here are some chef-approved tips from our kitchen at Shalimar Phuket:
- Use fresh or tender peas whenever possible for the best texture. Frozen peas work well too but rinse them before cooking.
- Cook the masala properly. Don’t rush this step — frying the onion and tomato base until it releases oil ensures maximum flavor.
- Adjust the spice level to your taste. Add green chilies for heat or a spoon of cream for mildness.
- For Kerala-style curry, always use fresh coconut milk, not canned — it gives a natural sweetness.
- Add kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) at the end for an aromatic North Indian touch.
With these simple tricks, your green peas curry recipe will taste just as good as what we serve in our restaurant.
Healthy and Heartwarming
Green peas are not just tasty — they’re full of health benefits. They’re low in fat, rich in fiber, and packed with vitamins A, C, and K. For vegetarians and vegans, green peas curry is an excellent source of plant-based protein.
Whether you’re dining at Shalimar Phuket or cooking at home, you can enjoy a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious. Plus, since green peas curry calories are quite moderate, it’s a guilt-free indulgence for food lovers of all ages.
Variations You Can Try at Home
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can modify the green peas curry recipe to suit your taste or pantry:
- Add paneer for a richer, protein-packed version called Matar Paneer.
- Add potatoes for a classic Aloo Matar combination.
- Stir in spinach for a nutrient boost and a vibrant green color.
- Use coconut milk and curry leaves for a green peas curry Kerala style flavor twist.
- Try the dhaba style by increasing the spices and adding butter for that bold, rustic North Indian flavor.
At Shalimar Phuket, we love experimenting with these regional influences, ensuring every plate reflects the diversity of Indian cuisine.
Experience Authentic Indian Flavor in Phuket
At Shalimar Phuket, we believe every dish tells a story — and our green peas curry is a story of simplicity, tradition, and care. Whether you prefer the creamy green peas curry Kerala style, the spicy green peas masala dhaba style, or a classic green peas masala curry, we promise a dining experience that captures the heart of Indian cooking.
So next time you’re in Phuket and craving authentic flavors, visit Shalimar Phuket and let the aroma of our green peas curry transport you straight to India’s vibrant kitchens.