Til Ke Aloo – A Delicious Indian Sesame Potato Recipe
Til Ke Aloo is a delightful vegetarian dish from India, where tender potatoes are tossed in a flavorful sesame paste, accompanied by fresh coriander, green chilies, and a mild blend of spices. This dish combines the rich, nutty flavor of sesame seeds with the comforting texture of boiled potatoes, creating a delicious and wholesome meal that pairs perfectly with flatbreads like roti or rice. The balance of flavors from the tangy lemon juice and earthy cumin, combined with the fragrant coriander, makes this dish both aromatic and delicious.
Here’s the detailed recipe to recreate this traditional dish.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small Potatoes | 2 cups | Peeled and cut into halves |
| Sesame Seeds (White) | 3 tablespoons | Toasted on a pan |
| Fresh Coriander Leaves | 1/2 cup | Chopped finely |
| Green Chilies | 2 | Sliced or chopped |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 tablespoon | |
| Garlic Cloves | 5 cloves | Crushed or chopped |
| Oil | 2 tablespoons | Any cooking oil |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 teaspoon | |
| Salt | As per taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Begin by boiling the small potatoes until they are tender. Once cooked, peel the potatoes and cut them into halves or quarters, depending on the size of the potatoes.
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Toast the Sesame Seeds: Heat a pan over medium heat and lightly toast the sesame seeds until they turn golden and release a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove from heat.
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Make Sesame Paste: Add the toasted sesame seeds to a blender or mixer jar. Add just enough water to form a thick paste, blending until smooth. Once done, transfer the paste into a bowl and set aside.
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Prepare the Herb Paste: In the same mixer jar, add the fresh coriander leaves, green chilies, garlic cloves, and turmeric powder. Add a small amount of water and blend into a smooth paste.
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Cooking in the Pan: Heat oil in a frying pan (kadhai). Once hot, add cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter for a few seconds. Then, add the coriander and chili paste into the pan. Stir it continuously for about a minute to cook the paste and release its flavors.
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Add the Potatoes: Add the boiled potato pieces into the pan. Sprinkle salt as per your taste and toss the potatoes gently so that they are well-coated with the herb paste.
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Add the Sesame Paste: Now, add the thick sesame paste to the pan, along with a little water if needed to help coat the potatoes well. Stir everything together, ensuring that the sesame paste evenly covers the potatoes. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes on low heat.
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Final Touch: Turn off the heat and finish by garnishing the dish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
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Serve: Serve the Til Ke Aloo hot with dal palak (spinach lentil curry), a fresh tomato, onion, cucumber raita, and warm phulkas (Indian flatbreads). It’s a perfect dish for a wholesome and satisfying lunch!
Tips for the Perfect Til Ke Aloo:
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add extra green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder to the coriander paste.
- Consistency of the Sesame Paste: You can adjust the consistency of the sesame paste according to your preference. For a richer flavor, you can keep the paste thicker.
- Flavor Enhancements: To further elevate the flavor, add a pinch of garam masala or a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving.
This simple yet delicious recipe is a great way to enjoy the health benefits of sesame seeds, which are rich in calcium and healthy fats. The tender potatoes, combined with the aromatic spices and herbs, create a mouthwatering dish that can be enjoyed by everyone in the family.
