SERVES 6 - 8
The term masala is used throughout India to describe various spice mixtures; garam masala is common in North India (garam means hot).
1/2 cup ghee or clarified butter 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and finely diced 6 cloves garlic, peeled and minced 1-2 serrano chiles, stemmed and minced 1" piece ginger, peeled and finely grated 4 1/2 tsp. garam masala 2 tsp. ground turmeric 1 cup canned chopped tomatoes Salt 2 1/2 cups dried black-eyed peas, soaked for 2-3 hours, then drained 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped
1. Melt ghee in a medium heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, chiles, and ginger and cook, stirring constantly, until onions are soft, 5-8 minutes. Add garam masala and turmeric, then add tomatoes and season to taste with salt. Cook, stirring often, until thickened slightly, about 2 minutes.
2. Add peas and 4 cups cold water to pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook, stirring occasionally, until peas are soft and sauce is thick, 1 1/2-2 hours. Stir in cream and cilantroand continue cooking 10 minutes more. Serve over steamed hot basamati rice, if you like.
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