Soya Mattar Kheema (Soya with Peas Kheema) #vegetarian

 These Soya chunks are not my favourite but I do occasionally experiment with them in various dishes that mimic non-veg dishes. I find this quite chewy but if made well, it can easily replicate a beef dish.

In the dish I am about to talk about, you may use soya granules. As I did not have the granules at hand I used these chunks and later chopped them to smaller bits. Soak a handful of these chunks in some warm water and set it aside for later. They will swell in this warm water.

In the meantime, chop some cilantro, mint, ginger and garlic real fine...Just go Chop...Chop ...Chop and a finely diced large onion and a tomato.

In a deep bottom vessel in two tbsps. of oil add a tsp. of cumin seeds, mustard seeds to splutter and then throw in all these finely chopped things. Let them sweat in this oil along with adequate salt, as they come together, add in a bit of turmeric, cumin powder, a tbsp. of coriander powder and a tsp. of red chilly powder. Let the spices all merge in well. Add a third of a cup of peas to this now along with finely chopped green chilly for the spice. You may add one or two chillies to your liking. I have added one.

 Once the peas also gets cosy along with the entire mix and masalas, it is time to drain the soya chunks that were in the warm water. Ensure that you squeeze out any excess water. We do not want a very soggy dish yet we need sufficient gravy.

Once most of the water is squeezed out from the swollen chunks. You may use them just like that or dice each to quarters like how I have done in this recipe. Do keep in mind, that the granules that resemble kheema/ minced meatare is easily available in the supermarkets.

You can make non -veg kheema in a similar manner, perhaps adding more spices. I was tempted to add in a few diced potatoes as well but resisted the temptation and kept it as simple as this. If you require more gravy, add some water and let it cook through. I did add a tsp. of garam masala to finish the dish and a garnish of cilantro. If you like a bit of sweetness, you may add some tomato puree to the cooking process. I kept my dish  bit dry hence did not add any additional liquid or sauce. I did squeeze in some lime in between the process just for an extra zing.