Keema with Peas
Make Pakistani-style keema with peas using ground beef, tomatoes, ginger, and warming spices. This easy skillet dinner pairs with rice or soft flatbread.
- Prep time
- 10 min
- Cook time
- 25 min
- Total time
- 35 min
- Servings
- 4

Keema refers to minced meat, and peas bring color and sweetness to this Pakistani-style home version. Ground beef is easy to find and cooks quickly in a broad skillet. Break it into small pieces before simmering so the tomato and spice mixture coats it evenly. The finished dish should be moist but not soupy. Keep a thermometer handy to confirm the beef is safely cooked, and serve four portions with rice or flatbread.
Keema with Peas
Serves 4 · Prep 10 min · Cook 25 min · Total 35 min
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook onion for 5 minutes, then stir in garlic and ginger for 1 minute.
- Add beef, cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 7 minutes, breaking up clumps, until the meat loses its raw appearance.
- Add tomatoes and measured water. Simmer uncovered for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Stir in peas and garam masala. Simmer for 4 minutes, until the peas are hot and the sauce coats the meat.
- Remove from heat and fold in cilantro. Divide among four plates, spooning the remaining sauce evenly over each portion.
A few kitchen notes
- Use a broad skillet to help the sauce reduce.
- Break beef into small pieces for an even texture.
Ingredient substitutions
- Replace beef with ground turkey; cook it to 165°F (74°C).
Storage & reheating
Refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 4 days. Freeze for 2 months; thaw refrigerated and reheat to 165°F (74°C).
What to serve with it
Serve with basmati rice or warm flatbread.
Comments & kitchen questions
Have a question, a useful substitution, or a result to share? Your feedback helps us make this recipe clearer and more useful.
Questions from the kitchen
Can I make Keema with Peas ahead?
Refrigerate within 2 hours for up to 4 days. Freeze for 2 months; thaw refrigerated and reheat to 165°F (74°C).
What if I can’t find an ingredient?
Replace beef with ground turkey; cook it to 165°F (74°C).
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