Methi Matar Malai Recipe (Fenugreek and Green Peas in Creamy Sauce)
Methi Matar Malai is a popular North Indian dish made with fresh fenugreek leaves (methi), green peas (matar), and a rich, creamy sauce (malai). This dish has a mildly sweet and creamy taste with a hint of bitterness from methi, making it a delightful combination of flavors. It is often served with roti, naan, or jeera rice. In this detailed recipe, we will go step by step to prepare this restaurant-style Methi Matar Malai at home.
Ingredients:
For the Main Curry:
- 2 cups fresh fenugreek leaves (methi), chopped
- 1 cup green peas (matar), boiled or frozen
- ½ cup fresh cream (malai or heavy cream)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder (haldi)
- ½ teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder (dhania powder)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional)
- ½ cup water
For the White Gravy Paste:
- 10-12 cashew nuts
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds (khus-khus) or melon seeds
- 2 green chilies, chopped
- 1-inch ginger, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic (optional)
- ½ cup milk or water (for blending)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Fenugreek Leaves (Methi)
- Wash the fresh fenugreek leaves thoroughly in water to remove any dirt.
- Chop the leaves finely and keep them aside.
- To reduce the bitterness of methi, sprinkle a little salt over the chopped leaves and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. Then, squeeze out the excess water and set aside.
Step 2: Preparing the White Gravy Paste
- Soak the cashew nuts and poppy seeds (or melon seeds) in warm water for 10 minutes.
- After soaking, blend them with green chilies, ginger, and garlic into a smooth paste using ½ cup milk or water.
- Keep this paste aside for later use.
Step 3: Cooking the Curry
- Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Add the prepared white gravy paste and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Now, add the chopped methi leaves and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they shrink and become soft.
- Add boiled green peas and stir well.
Step 4: Adding Cream and Final Touch
- Pour ½ cup of water into the pan and mix everything well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add fresh cream (malai) and mix gently to give the curry a rich and creamy texture.
- Sprinkle garam masala and sugar (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and let the flavors blend for a minute.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Methi Matar Malai hot with roti, naan, paratha, or jeera rice.
- Garnish with a little fresh cream and chopped coriander leaves for extra richness.
- Pair it with a simple salad and pickle for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations:
- For a Healthier Version: Instead of fresh cream, you can use milk or curd to reduce the calorie content.
- For a Vegan Option: Replace cream with cashew paste or coconut milk.
- If Using Frozen Peas: Thaw them in warm water before adding them to the curry.
- For a Spicier Taste: Add more green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder.
- To Reduce Bitterness: Always soak methi in salt water and squeeze out excess water before cooking.
Conclusion:
Methi Matar Malai is a delicious, creamy, and mildly spiced curry that brings together the goodness of fenugreek leaves and green peas. The rich texture and balanced flavors make it a perfect dish for both special occasions and everyday meals. With this detailed recipe, you can now prepare restaurant-style Methi Matar Malai at home effortlessly.
Enjoy your homemade Methi Matar Malai with your favorite Indian bread or rice, and let us know how it turned out! 😊