Indian Carrots, Peas and Potatoes

Flavorful Indian Carrots, Peas, and Potatoes: A Homely Delight for Your Taste Buds

Indian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its rich flavors and aromatic spices, and this recipe for Indian Carrots, Peas, and Potatoes is no exception. Bursting with vibrant colors and bold flavors, this dish combines tender potatoes, sweet peas, and earthy carrots, all simmered in a fragrant blend of spices. Whether served as a side dish or a vegetarian main course, this hearty and comforting dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates. Join us as we journey through the recipe and uncover the secrets to creating this delightful Indian delicacy.

Ingredients:

  • Produce:
    • 1 tbsp Coriander, ground
    • 1 Onion
    • 1 (10 ounce) package Peas and carrots, frozen mixed
    • 6 Potatoes
  • Baking & Spices:
    • 1 tsp Chili powder
    • 1/2 tsp Salt
    • 1 tsp Turmeric, ground
  • Oils & Vinegars:
    • 5 tbsp Vegetable oil
  • Nuts & Seeds:
    • 1 tbsp Cumin, ground
  • Liquids:
    • 3 tbsp Water

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Finely chop the onion. If using frozen mixed peas and carrots, allow them to thaw slightly.
  2. Saute the Onions: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent and begins to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Spices: Once the onions are caramelized, add ground coriander, chili powder, turmeric, ground cumin, and salt to the skillet. Stir well to coat the onions in the spices and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Cook Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and mix them thoroughly with the spiced onion mixture. Cook the potatoes for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften slightly.
  5. Incorporate Peas and Carrots: Once the potatoes have begun to cook, add the thawed peas and carrots to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly.
  6. Simmer with Water: Pour water into the skillet and stir well to incorporate it into the vegetables and spices. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the mixture to simmer over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
  7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or chili powder according to your preference.
  8. Serve Hot: Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking and the flavors have developed, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired, and serve hot as a delicious side dish or vegetarian main course.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Add Creaminess: For a creamy texture, you can add a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream to the dish towards the end of cooking.
  • Enhance Flavor: Amp up the flavor by adding minced garlic, ginger, or green chilies along with the onions.
  • Nutty Twist: Sprinkle the finished dish with toasted cashews or almonds for an added crunch and nutty flavor.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

  • Keto Version: To make this dish keto-friendly, substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips. Use ghee or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil, and opt for low-carb vegetables like green beans or bell peppers instead of peas and carrots.
  • Low Carb Version: Reduce the amount of potatoes or omit them entirely, focusing on the peas and carrots as the main vegetables. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences and consider adding extra spices or herbs for flavor.

Indian Carrots, Peas, and Potatoes is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine in a comforting and satisfying way. Whether enjoyed as a side dish to accompany your favorite Indian meal or served as a standalone vegetarian entrée, this dish is sure to impress with its aromatic spices and hearty vegetables. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend meals. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of India.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use fresh peas and carrots instead of frozen? A: Absolutely! Fresh peas and carrots can be used in place of frozen ones. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh vegetables may cook faster than frozen ones.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later? A: Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, then gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Q: Is there a substitute for ground coriander if I don’t have any on hand? A: If you don’t have ground coriander, you can use ground cumin or garam masala as a substitute. Both spices will add depth and flavor to the dish.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this dish? A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, green beans, or cauliflower. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all the vegetables are cooked through.

Q: Can I make this dish spicy or milder according to my preference? A: Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of this dish by adding more or less chili powder or omitting it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. Feel free to customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

Savor the Aromas of India! Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and answers to your questions, it’s time to savor the delightful aromas and flavors of Indian Carrots, Peas, and Potatoes. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to Indian cuisine, this dish is sure to impress with its bold flavors and comforting appeal. So gather your ingredients, embrace the spices, and get ready to enjoy a taste of India right in your own kitchen!