Maharashtrian Aloo Bhujne Recipe – Potato Stir Fry
Maharashtrian Aloo Bhujne is a delightful and simple potato stir fry, capturing the essence of traditional Maharashtrian flavors. This dish, often enjoyed by the Pathare Prabhu community, is a staple in many homes, particularly for its blend of aromatic spices and the comfort of potatoes. Bhujne, meaning ‘curry’, is prepared using a unique spice mix, which gives this dish its distinctive flavor. The fusion of spices and the tender potatoes makes it a perfect accompaniment to dal, rice, or phulkas.
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: Maharashtrian
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
| Main Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potato (Aloo), skins removed and sliced into rounds | 4 potatoes |
| Onions, finely chopped | 2 onions |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/ Kadugu) | ½ teaspoon |
| Green Chilli, chopped | 1 green chilli |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Ginger Garlic Paste | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| For Pathare Prabhu Sambar Masala | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Wheat Germ | 1 tablespoon |
| Chana dal (Bengal Gram Dal) | 1 tablespoon |
| Methi Seeds (Fenugreek Seeds) | ½ teaspoon |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 1 teaspoon |
| Coriander Seeds (Dhania) | 5 tablespoons |
| Dry Red Chillies | 5 pieces |
| Cumin seeds (Jeera) | ½ teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/ Kadugu) | ½ teaspoon |
| Turmeric powder (Haldi) | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | A pinch |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling the potatoes and slicing them into thin roundels. In a pressure cooker, add the sliced potatoes with enough water, and cook for one whistle. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally and set the potatoes aside.
Step 2: Make the Sambar Masala
Now, let’s prepare the signature Pathare Prabhu Sambar Masala that will give the dish its authentic flavor. In a dry pan, toast the coriander seeds, wheat germ, chana dal, methi seeds, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, dry red chillies, and turmeric powder. Roast them for about 5 minutes until the spices release a wonderful aroma. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, allow the spices to cool down.
Transfer the cooled spices to a grinder and blend into a fine powder. Set the masala powder aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Spices
Heat a kadai or a deep pan on medium flame and add 2 tablespoons of oil. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter for a few seconds. Then, add the finely chopped onions and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté for about 10 minutes until the onions turn golden and become translucent.
Step 4: Add the Spices and Potatoes
Now, add the chopped green chillies, turmeric powder, and the freshly ground Pathare Prabhu masala to the pan. Stir well and add a splash of water to ensure the spices don’t burn. Once the masala is well-mixed and aromatic, add the cooked potatoes and season with salt.
Sauté everything together for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can add a little more water if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish off by adding freshly chopped coriander leaves and giving it one final mix. The Maharashtrian Aloo Bhujne is now ready to serve!
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Maharashtrian Aloo Bhujne alongside a warm bowl of Dal Tadka, fragrant Steamed Rice, and Phulkas for a wholesome lunch or dinner. The stir-fried potatoes, enriched with the Pathare Prabhu masala, pair wonderfully with the mild dal and soft phulkas, making it an ideal meal for any occasion.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 150 mg |
| Sugars | 3 g |
| Vitamin A | 12% DV |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
This Maharashtrian Aloo Bhujne is the perfect example of simple, comforting, and flavorful vegetarian cuisine. With its aromatic spices and tender potatoes, it’s sure to be a family favorite in your home.
