Choto Aloor Dum Recipe (Bengali Style)
Recipe Overview:
Choto Aloor Dum is a traditional Bengali recipe that’s both flavorful and comforting. It’s a perfect side dish for lunch or dinner, often paired with Cholar Dal (Bengali gram lentil curry) and Luchi (fried flatbread). The dish features small potatoes simmered in a spiced gravy, creating a rich and aromatic curry that is sure to delight your taste buds. The combination of mustard oil, cumin seeds, and garam masala gives it a unique flavor profile, making it a beloved choice in Bengali cuisine.
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Small potatoes (boiled & peeled) | 1/2 kg (500g) |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Coriander powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Onions (chopped) | 2 medium-sized |
| Tomatoes (chopped) | 2 medium-sized |
| Green chilies (chopped) | 2 |
| Ginger (grated) | 1/2 inch piece |
| Mustard oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Cumin seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh coriander leaves (for garnish) | As per use |
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Servings: 4
Cuisine: Bengali
Course: Main Dish (Lunch)
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Heat Mustard Oil:
Start by heating mustard oil in a deep pan or kadhai over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds to it. Allow the seeds to crackle for about 10 seconds, releasing their aroma. -
Prepare the Onion-Tomato Paste:
In a blender, add the chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and ginger. Blend into a smooth paste. -
Cook the Onion-Tomato Mixture:
Pour the prepared paste into the hot pan with the cumin seeds. Add salt and sugar to the mixture and cook for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally. The mixture will begin to thicken and reduce. -
Add the Dry Spices:
After 1 minute, add the following spices:- Red chili powder
- Turmeric powder
- Coriander powder
Mix well to coat the onion-tomato paste with the spices. Let this cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the oil to separate from the masala, which indicates that the spices are well-cooked.
-
Add the Potatoes and Garam Masala:
Now, add the boiled and peeled small potatoes to the pan. Toss them gently in the masala mixture. Add garam masala powder and mix everything together. -
Cook the Dish:
Reduce the heat and let the potatoes simmer in the gravy for 7 to 10 minutes. The potatoes will absorb all the flavors of the spices, making them tender and flavorful. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the dish is ready, turn off the gas. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for an added burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
-
Serve Choto Aloor Dum hot with Cholar Dal (Bengali gram lentil curry) and Luchi (fried bread). The combination of these dishes makes for a traditional and hearty Bengali meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
-
You can also pair this dish with plain steamed rice or paratha for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Tips:
-
Mustard Oil: Mustard oil is a key ingredient in Bengali cooking, adding depth and richness to the flavor. If you don’t have mustard oil, you can substitute it with vegetable or sunflower oil, but it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
-
Potatoes: Use small, waxy potatoes for the best results, as they hold their shape well when cooked in curry. If using large potatoes, you can cut them into smaller pieces.
-
Spices: Adjust the level of green chilies and red chili powder based on your spice preference. For a milder version, reduce the quantity of these ingredients.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 34g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Potassium | 650mg |
| Sugar | 3g |
Choto Aloor Dum is a delicious and hearty Bengali dish, perfect for satisfying your cravings for comforting, spicy food. The blend of spices and the richness of mustard oil create a flavor-packed experience that will transport you straight to the heart of Bengali cuisine. It’s simple yet elegant, making it a wonderful addition to your meal rotation.
