Place potatoes in a medium saucepan and cover with cold salted water. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a low boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes. Drain completely.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix together coriander, cumin, turmeric, cayenne, and ginger with about 1 tablespoon of water to form a paste. Set aside.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When hot, add onions and cook for 3 minutes. Add spice mixture, and stir and cook for about a minute. Add about 1/4 cup of water and cook, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen the spices that have stuck.
Add peas and potatoes, stir to coat, and heat through. Taste and add salt as needed.