Veg. Soya Keema Matar

Veg Soya Keema Matar is a flavorful vegetarian dish made with textured soy protein and green peas. It’s prepared by sautéing soya granules with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala, along with onions, tomatoes, and ginger-garlic paste. The dish offers a rich and savory taste, providing a protein-packed alternative to traditional keema recipes. Enjoyed hot with flatbreads or rice, it’s a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Here’s a detailed recipe for preparing Veg Soya Keema Matar.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup soya granules or chunks
  • 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 tomatoes, finely chopped or pureed
  • 1 green chili, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Soya Granules:
    • If using soya granules, soak them in hot water for 15-20 minutes. Squeeze out excess water and set aside. If using soya chunks, boil them in water for 5-7 minutes, drain, rinse with cold water, and then pulse in a food processor to get a minced texture. Squeeze out excess water and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics:
    • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and bay leaf. Let them splutter.
    • Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  3. Add Ginger-Garlic Paste and Spices:
    • Add ginger-garlic paste and green chili. Cook for a minute until the raw aroma dissipates.
    • Add chopped or pureed tomatoes. Cook until they soften and the oil separates from the masala.
  4. Spice Blend:
    • Add coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook the spices for a few minutes until aromatic.
  5. Cook the Soya Mixture:
    • Add the prepared soya granules or chunks to the masala. Mix thoroughly to combine the spices with the soya.
    • Add green peas and stir well.
  6. Simmer:
    • Cover the pan and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  7. Garnish and Serve:
    • Once the soya and peas are cooked and the flavors have blended well, garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
    • Veg Soya Keema Matar is ready to be served hot with chapati, naan, or rice.

This dish is packed with protein from the soya and the delightful taste of spices, making it a nutritious and flavorful vegetarian option. Adjust the spices according to your taste preference. Enjoy your Veg Soya Keema Matar!