Odisha Style Aloo Bharta Recipe (Aloo Mash Sabzi)
If you’re in the mood for a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare, look no further than the Odisha Style Aloo Bharta (Aloo Mash Sabzi). This simple, yet delightful mashed potato stir fry comes together effortlessly with a blend of basic ingredients found in most kitchens. What makes this Odia dish stand out is the subtle flavor of mustard oil and the signature tempering of mustard seeds, dry red chilies, and curry leaves. The result is a satisfying side dish that’s light on spices but packed with flavor.
In the culinary landscape of Odisha, the emphasis is on simplicity with minimal use of oil and spices, yet each dish is bursting with natural flavors. This Odisha Style Aloo Bharta is no exception, providing the perfect balance of taste and texture.
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Oriya Recipes
Diet: Vegetarian
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Aloo) | 4, peeled |
| Mustard seeds (Rai/Kadugu) | 1 teaspoon |
| Curry leaves | 1 sprig |
| Dry Red Chilies | 3, seeds removed and torn |
| Onion | 1, chopped |
| Green Chilli | 1, chopped |
| Salt | To taste |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by pressure cooking the peeled potatoes in a pressure cooker with water and salt. Cook for about 4 whistles until the potatoes are soft and tender. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally. Afterward, mash the potatoes using a potato masher until smooth and set aside.
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Tempering the Spices: Heat a kadai (wok) on medium heat and add mustard oil. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and allow them to splutter. This releases the mustard’s natural aroma, which forms the base of the dish’s flavor.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Next, add the chopped onions to the kadai and sauté them until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the dry red chilies and chopped green chili. Stir for a few seconds, allowing the chilies to infuse their flavor into the oil.
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Add the Mashed Potatoes: Add the freshly mashed potatoes to the kadai, mixing them well with the tempered spices and onions. Sprinkle salt to taste, ensuring everything is well combined.
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Final Touches: Stir the mixture well, ensuring the potatoes are evenly coated with the tempered spices and seasonings. Once done, switch off the heat.
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Serve: Serve the Odisha Style Aloo Bharta hot as a side dish. For a complete breakfast or meal, pair it with Puri (puffed fried Indian bread) and a side of Sagu (a flavorful curry).
This humble yet flavorful dish is a perfect addition to any meal, especially when enjoyed with traditional Indian breads like puris. The Odisha Style Aloo Bharta is a reminder that sometimes less is more — with the right balance of ingredients, even the simplest dishes can be absolutely delicious.
