Quick Fix - Peas Stir-fry

Quick vegetable dishes or stir fries (for lack of a better word) like these were the norm during my student life. One would think regular dinners of microwave soups, bread and eggs and even cereal (I kid you not!) would spur us into making something a bit more substantial when we had the time, but both my friend and I were always keen on short cuts. Cooking seemed like a necessary chore at the time and we got it done by taking the least amount of effort possible!

Though it no longer seems like a chore (well... not always :-)) I still like short cuts in cooking. Nothing can get quicker than this dish - not a lot of chopping required, no grinding of masala involved, just a simple stir fry that goes well with everything - roti, rice-dal or our then favorite accompaniment - sliced bread.

VATANA SUKKE/ USAL (Green Peas Stir Fry)
2 cups green peas
1 medium size onion, chopped fine
3 green chillies, slit
2 tbsp grated coconut
1/2 tsp turmeric
1 tbsp finely chopped cilantro
salt to taste
For seasoning -
1/2 tsp mustard seeds
1/2 tsp cumin seeds
a pinch of asafoetida
oil

Heat oil in a pan. Add mustard seeds; once they begin to pop add asafoetida and cumin seeds. Let the cumin sizzle then add onion and chillies. Saute until the onion turns slightly golden.

Add peas and turmeric and season with salt. Add a little water and cook until peas are tender.

Sprinkle grated coconut and cilantro on top and serve hot.