As the winter season settles in, many households start preparing delightful dishes featuring green peas, also known as matar. This ingredient is cherished not just for its sweet flavor and crisp texture but also for its impressive protein content and versatility in various recipes. Below are some simple yet satisfying winter recipes that highlight the health benefits and delicious nature of green peas.

Matar Stir-fry is an excellent option for a quick and healthy meal. In this dish, green peas are sautéed with spices, herbs, and often complemented with vegetables or tofu for an extra protein boost. With approximately 180-220 calories per serving and 8-10 grams of protein, it’s a perfect side dish or snack.

Another wonderful dish is Matar Chokha, capturing the rustic essence of winter with its sweet and spicy flavors. To prepare, boil and mash the fresh peas, then blend them with minced garlic, chilies, and mustard oil to create a vibrant side dish.

For a warm and nourishing experience, Matar and Moong Dal Soup provides a hearty combination of green peas and moong dal, seasoned with various spices and herbs. This soup is not only filling but also offers a complete plant-based protein source, with about 170-200 calories and 10-12 grams of protein per serving.

Matar and Soya Bean Cutlets make a delightful snack that combines the protein-rich aspects of both green peas and soya beans, seasoned with Indian spices and either shallow-fried or baked. One serving typically contains 120-150 calories and 12-15 grams of protein.

One of the comforting staples of North Indian cuisine is Matar Paneer, where green peas simmer in a spiced tomato gravy until tender. Once the peas are cooked, paneer cubes are added, allowing them to soak up the flavor-rich sauce, yielding about 220-250 calories and 12-15 grams of protein per serving.

Matar Soup, another wholesome meal perfect for winter, can be prepared with blended green peas, olive oil, and a mix of spices. This comforting soup offers a delightful taste with only 150-180 calories and 6-8 grams of protein per serving.

Lastly, Matar Pulao showcases fragrant basmati rice cooked with green peas and aromatic spices such as cumin, cinnamon, and cloves. This dish is simple yet rich in flavor and protein, providing around 230-270 calories and 8-10 grams of protein per serving.

These various matar recipes not only substantiate the nutritional value of green peas but also deliver comfort during the chilly winter months, making them wonderful additions to any desi household's winter menu.