Keema Matar
Ground meat (chicken or mutton) cooked with green peas in a fragrant onion-tomato base.
For 3 servings
3 steps. 28 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds until they sizzle.
- b.Add onions and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
- c.Stir in ginger and garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add tomatoes and dry spices, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
TIPEnsure the tomatoes are completely soft and the oil begins to separate from the masala for the best flavor base. - 2
Step 2
- a.Add the ground chicken and cook for 8 minutes, breaking up lumps with a spatula.
- b.Stir in the green peas, water, and salt.
- c.Cover and simmer for 8 minutes until the meat is cooked through and peas are tender.
- 3
Step 3
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use mutton keema with a little bit of fat (around 80% lean, 20% fat).
- 2The 'bhunao' or browning process for the keema is the most critical step. Don't rush it, as this develops a deep, savory flavor.
- 3Always add whisked yogurt on the lowest heat and stir continuously to prevent it from splitting or curdling.
- 4Using hot water to make the gravy helps maintain the cooking temperature and keeps the meat tender.
- 5Keema Matar tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. It's an excellent dish for meal prep.
- 6For a richer flavor, you can replace the vegetable oil with ghee.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meat
Substitute mutton with minced chicken, turkey, or beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as chicken and turkey cook faster.
VegetarianVegetarian
For a vegetarian version, replace the mutton keema with soya granules (soaked and squeezed), crumbled paneer, or a mix of finely chopped mushrooms and lentils.
With PotatoesWith Potatoes
Add 1-2 small, diced potatoes along with the green peas to make 'Aloo Keema Matar'. You may need to add a little extra water and cook for a few more minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Increase the amount of green chilies and red chili powder, or add a pinch of black pepper powder along with the garam masala at the end.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Mutton is a complete protein source, essential for building and repairing tissues, muscle growth, and supporting overall body function.
Excellent Source of Iron
This dish provides heme iron from mutton, which is easily absorbed by the body. Iron is crucial for forming hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood and helps prevent anemia.
Anti-Inflammatory Spices
The blend of Indian spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic contains powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds that support the immune system and overall wellness.
Provides Sustained Energy
The combination of high-quality protein from the keema and complex carbohydrates from the peas provides a steady release of energy, making it a very satisfying and fulfilling meal.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Keema Matar (approximately 1 cup or 380g) contains around 540-580 calories, depending on the fat content of the mutton and the amount of oil used.