6 High-Protein Matar Recipes That Are Perfect for Winters

Winter brings a cosy feeling into every home. When the temperature drops, people naturally look for warm and comforting meals. One ingredient that fits perfectly into winter cooking is matar, also known as green peas. Fresh peas are easily available during this season and can turn ordinary dishes into delicious and wholesome meals.

Even though peas look small, they are extremely powerful when it comes to nutrition. They contain plant-based protein, fibre, and important vitamins like A, C, and K. These nutrients help improve immunity, keep digestion smooth, and give steady energy—something everyone needs during the winter months.
For busy families in cities like Dubai, peas are also a great choice because they are simple to cook and work well with many recipes.

Here are six high-protein matar recipes that are perfect for cold days, friendly on the pocket, and wonderful in taste.

1. Matar Paneer – A Hot, Comforting Protein Meal

Matar paneer has been a favourite at dinner tables for years. The slight sweetness of peas mixes beautifully with soft paneer, creating a creamy curry that warms you from the inside.

Why It’s Loved

• Good amount of protein

• Rich, comforting taste

• Keeps you full for a long time

How It’s Made

Cook onions, tomatoes, garlic, and spices in a pan. Add fresh peas and paneer cubes. Let everything cook until soft and well mixed.
This curry tastes amazing with roti, naan, or hot rice—especially on chilly evenings.

2. Matar Poha – A Quick, High-Protein Breakfast

Poha is a light and common breakfast dish, but when you add peas to it, the protein value increases instantly. It cooks fast and gives steady energy to start the day.

Why It’s Useful

• Very easy to prepare

• Light but filling

• Provides iron, fibre, and protein

How to Cook It

Cook peas with mustard seeds, onions, and turmeric. Add washed poha and mix gently.
Add lemon juice for a fresh taste.

3. Matar Chilla – A Crispy Green Pea Pancake

Matar chilla is a wonderful twist on the usual gram-flour pancake. The peas give it a beautiful colour and a healthy dose of protein.

Why It Works

• Naturally gluten-free

• Crispy and tasty

• Great for breakfast or evening tea

How to Make It

Blend peas with ginger, green chilli, and a little besan (gram flour).
Spread the batter on a hot pan and cook until golden.
Enjoy it with mint or coriander chutney.

4. Matar Khichdi – Simple, Warm, and Protein-Packed

Khichdi is known as a comfort dish for winter days. When peas are added, it becomes healthier and richer in protein.

Why It’s Ideal for Winter

• Easy to digest

• High in protein from dal and peas

• Gentle and soothing on the stomach

How to Prepare

Cook rice, dal, and peas together with turmeric and salt.
Add a spoon of ghee on top for extra warmth and flavour.

5. Matar Cutlets – Crispy, Warm Winter Snack

These pea cutlets are crisp outside, soft inside, and full of nutrition. They are great for evening snacks, kids’ lunchboxes, or even gatherings.

Why You’ll Enjoy Them

• Made with simple ingredients

• Filling and tasty

• Loved by all age groups

How to Cook

Mash boiled peas and potatoes. Add spices.
Shape the mixture into patties and shallow-fry until golden brown.
Serve hot with chutney or ketchup.

6. Matar Soup – A Smooth, Protein-Rich Winter Bowl

A hot bowl of pea soup is one of the easiest ways to enjoy a healthy winter dinner. It feels creamy even without adding cream.

Why You Should Try It

• Light yet filling

• High in plant protein

• Warm and perfect for cold nights

How to Make It

Cook peas with garlic and vegetable stock. Blend into a smooth soup and heat before serving.
Add pepper or herbs on top for extra flavour.

Why Matar Is a Winter Superfood

Green peas offer several important benefits:

✔ Excellent plant-based protein
✔ Rich in vitamins A, C, and K
✔ Good for digestion due to fibre
✔ Boosts immunity naturally
✔ Gives steady energy
✔ Affordable and easy to cook

Whether it's breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks—peas fit everywhere.

Winter is the best time to enjoy fresh green peas. The six recipes shared—matar paneer, matar poha, matar chilla, matar khichdi, matar cutlets, and matar soup—show how versatile and healthy this simple ingredient can be. All these dishes are rich in protein, budget-friendly, and perfect for families looking for nutritious meals in the colder months.

For people in Dubai and around the world, these matar recipes offer a warm, simple, and healthy way to enjoy the winter season.

Disclaimer 

The information in this article is meant for general awareness and should not be taken as medical or professional dietary advice. Individual nutritional needs may vary. Readers are encouraged to consult a certified healthcare or nutrition expert before making significant changes to their diet, especially if they have allergies or medical conditions. DXB News Network is not responsible for any decisions made based on this content.