Methi Matar Malai ~ Flavorful and Simple Dish

A flavorful and simple dish for winter months when Methi is going to be abundantly available. 

Ingredients :

Methi : 2 Big bunches of methi. Leaves separated from stem. Pluck 3 leaves corner

Matar (Hasi Batani/ Fresh Peas): 2 handfuls

Milk: 1/2 cup

Garam Masala: 1/2 tsp

Turmeric : A big pinch

Kasoori Methi : 2 big pinches

Salt

Sugar(a pinch)

Oil for frying : 2 tsp

Jeera (Cumin) : 1/2 tsp

To fry and grind:

Medium sized onion : 1

Green Chilies: 2-3

Ginger: 1/2 inch

Cloves: 2

Pre-Soaked Cashews: 8

Cardamom: few grains or a pinch of powder

Method: 

1. Separate methi leaves from stem. Wash and drain.

2. Thaw peas if you are using frozen peas. If you are using fresh peas, shell them. Wash peas and drain. 

3. Soak cashews for 10-15 minutes before you grind. Soak them in warm water. 

4. Chop onions roughly. Cut green chilies into big pieces. Roughly cut ginger. 

5. Add 1/2 tsp oil to frying pan. Fry onions, chilies, cardamom, cloves, and ginger till onions are  translucent. Add soaked cashews and grind to smooth paste using water.

7. Add remaining oil to the pan. Throw in cumin seeds. When cumin starts turning brown, add ground paste and fry for 2 seconds. Next add Methi leaves and green peas. Mix well. Add turmeric, garam masala and salt. Fry for 2 more minutes. Sprinkle kasoori methi.

8. Add milk, fresh cream and sugar. Cook on low flame for 4 minutes. Check salt and adjust if needed. Serve hot with parathas or pooris.