Vegan Keema Matar (Minced Meat Curry)

If you're craving bold Indian flavors but want a wholesome, plant-powered version, Vegan Keema Matar is your answer. This dish takes all the warming, aromatic richness of traditional Keema Matar—typically made with minced meat and peas—and transforms it into a satisfying vegan delight. Think tender lentils, peas, and crumbly vegan mince simmered in a spiced tomato gravy. It’s comfort food that hugs your soul and your taste buds.

❤️ Why You’ll Love This Vegan Keema Matar

• 🌿 100% Plant-Based: No meat, no dairy—just pure plant goodness.
• 🔥 Packed with Flavor: Thanks to garam masala, tomato paste, and warm spices.
• 🍽️ Perfect Meal Prep: Keeps well for days and tastes better over time.
• 🧂 Customizable: Make it mild or spicy, chunky or smooth, depending on your mood.
• 🧡 Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.

🍛 What is Keema Matar?

Traditionally, Keema Matar is a North Indian dish made with minced lamb or beef ("keema") and green peas ("matar"), simmered in a rich, spiced tomato gravy. It's often served with flatbreads like roti or naan, or over rice. Our vegan version keeps the essence alive—savory, hearty, and warming—without the meat.

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🌱 How to Make It Vegan

Simple! Replace the minced meat with your favorite vegan mince (I used NoBull Burgers, crumbled), and amp up the texture and nutrition with lentils and potatoes. Use plant milk instead of dairy cream, and balance flavors with coconut sugar instead of refined sugar. Every swap retains the dish’s traditional vibe while staying true to a plant-based lifestyle.

📝 Ingredients + Quick Descriptions

Ingredient	Why It’s Used
Vegan mince	Adds the meaty texture—NoBull Burgers work beautifully.
Green peas	The ‘matar’—adds sweetness and texture.
Lentils	Boosts protein and bulk; blends well with mince.
Potatoes	Adds body and heartiness to the curry.
Tin tomatoes	The base of the rich, savory curry sauce.
Tomato paste	Deepens the umami and rich tomato flavor.
Garam masala	Signature Indian spice blend—aromatic and warming.
Coconut sugar	Adds a touch of sweetness to balance acidity.
Plant milk	Creamy texture without dairy—use unsweetened for best results.
Chickpeas (optional)	Swap or add for more protein and chunkiness.

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🥣 Peas or Chickpeas?

Green peas are traditional, but chickpeas are a fantastic protein-packed option. You can even mix the two for variety. Peas offer sweetness and softness; chickpeas bring chew and bite. Choose based on your texture preference!

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🍯 Garam Masala + Coconut Sugar: A Flavor Balance

Garam masala gives that unmistakable Indian warmth with notes of cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. A touch of coconut sugar balances out the tanginess of tomatoes, rounding out the flavor profile perfectly.

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🥛 Why Plant Milk Works

Adding plant milk at the end gives this dish a luxurious, creamy finish—without dairy. Opt for oat, cashew, or almond milk to keep the flavors neutral and smooth.

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🧄 Step-by-Step: How to Make Vegan Keema Matar

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook till soft.
2. Spice It Up: Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala.
3. Add Tomato Base: Mix in tomato paste and canned tomatoes. Let it simmer until thick.
4. Toss in Mince: Crumble your NoBull Burger (or vegan mince) into the sauce.
5. Add Bulk: Stir in cooked lentils, diced potatoes, and green peas (or chickpeas).
6. Simmer: Cover and cook for 15–20 minutes until everything melds together.
7. Finish with Creaminess: Stir in plant milk and a pinch of coconut sugar.
8. Garnish & Serve: Top with fresh cilantro. Serve with rice, naan, or roti.

🔄 Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chopped green chilies or extra chili powder.
• Nutty Twist: Stir in ground cashews for a richer, thicker gravy.
• Green Touch: Add spinach or kale toward the end for extra nutrition.

🔁 Substitutions

Original	Swap With
Vegan mince	Crumbled tofu or mushrooms
Coconut sugar	Maple syrup or brown sugar
Plant milk	Coconut cream for extra richness
Peas	Chickpeas or edamame

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⁉️ FAQs

1. Can I freeze Vegan Keema Matar?
Absolutely! It freezes well for up to 3 months.

2. How spicy is this dish?
Moderate, but you can adjust spices to your liking.

3. What can I serve with this?
Basmati rice, naan, roti, or even baked potatoes!

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, just cook them down longer for the same depth.

5. Is this gluten-free?
Yes, if your vegan mince is gluten-free.

6. Can I make it oil-free?
Totally! Use water or veggie broth to sauté.

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🌟 Top Tip

Let the curry sit for 10–15 minutes after cooking—it deepens the flavor and thickens beautifully!

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💡 Hint

Double the batch—it tastes even better the next day and makes fantastic leftovers!