Matra Chaat - Spicy Snack Made from Dried Green Peas

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Serves 4

Matra Chaat is a deliciously spicy and tangy North Indian street-style dish made from dried green peas. It can be enjoyed as a hearty snack or served as a main dish with kulcha or naan.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup matra (dried green peas; light brown in color, similar to chickpeas)

  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • 2 tablespoons ginger, finely chopped

  • 2 small green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

  • 2 tablespoons tamarind pulp

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon black salt (adjust to taste)

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • ¼ teaspoon sugar

  • 1 tablespoon cumin seeds

  • 1 tablespoon coriander seeds

For Garnish

  • A few lemon slices

  • 2 tablespoons ginger, finely chopped

  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped

Method

  1. Wash and soak the matra in 3 cups of water overnight. After soaking, the peas will increase to about 2½ times their original volume.

  2. Dry roast the cumin seeds and coriander seeds separately until fragrant and lightly browned. Allow them to cool, then grind into a fine powder.

  3. Transfer the soaked matra to a pressure cooker and add 2½ cups of water.

  4. Add salt, ginger, and green chilies. Cook on medium-high heat.

  5. Once the pressure cooker begins to steam, reduce the heat to medium and cook for 8–9 minutes.

  6. Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release naturally before opening the cooker. The matra should be soft and tender.

  7. Add tamarind pulp, lemon juice, roasted spice powders, black salt, black pepper, and sugar.

  8. Mix well and adjust salt and seasoning to taste. Add a little water if needed—the gravy should be thick, not runny.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm.

  • Garnish with chopped ginger, green chilies, and lemon slices.

  • Pair with kulcha, naan, or enjoy on its own as a filling chaat.

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