Batata Nu Shaak: A Flavorful Gujarati Potato Curry
Embark on a culinary journey to the vibrant heart of Gujarat with Batata Nu Shaak, a delightful potato curry that beautifully balances spices, textures, and flavors. This dish, steeped in tradition, serves as a perfect accompaniment for a variety of Indian breads or rice, offering a satisfying vegetarian option that is both comforting and delicious.
Ingredients
Here’s a detailed table of the ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Batata Nu Shaak, along with their nutritional information to help you make informed choices:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| आलू (Potatoes) | 4 medium-sized, peeled and chopped |
| अदरक (Ginger) | 1 inch, grated |
| टमाटर प्यूरी (Tomato Puree) | 2 medium-sized tomatoes pureed |
| जीरा (Cumin Seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| राइ (Mustard Seeds) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| हल्दी पाउडर (Turmeric Powder) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| हींग (Asafoetida) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| लाल मिर्च पाउडर (Red Chili Powder) | 1 teaspoon |
| धनिया पाउडर (Coriander Powder) | 1 teaspoon |
| तेल (Oil) | 2 teaspoons |
| हरा धनिया (Green Coriander) | Finely chopped, for garnish |
| काला नमक (Black Salt) | To taste |
| नमक (Salt) | To taste |
| Total Preparation Time | 55 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Cuisine | Gujarati |
| Course | Lunch |
| Diet | Vegetarian |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
To make your cooking experience as healthy as possible, here is the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
Preparation Steps
Creating Batata Nu Shaak is a simple yet gratifying process that involves layering flavors through thoughtful cooking techniques. Follow these steps to bring this delicious dish to your dining table:
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Heat the Oil: Begin by heating the oil in a kadhai (wok) over medium heat. The choice of oil is essential; opt for vegetable oil or ghee to enrich the flavor of the dish.
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Tempering the Spices: Once the oil is hot, add mustard seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds. Follow this with cumin seeds and cinnamon, allowing them to cook together for about 30 seconds until they release their fragrant aroma.
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Add Ground Spices and Tomato Puree: Incorporate asafoetida, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and the grated ginger into the tempered spices. Next, pour in the tomato puree and allow the mixture to sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
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Combine Vegetables and Water: Add the coriander powder and potatoes to the pan. Season with salt and black salt, then pour in 2 cups of water. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
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Cooking the Potatoes: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, cover the kadhai with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
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Thicken the Gravy: After cooking, gently mash a few pieces of potato directly in the pan to thicken the gravy. This step adds a creamy texture to the dish, balancing the spices beautifully.
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Garnish and Serve: Once done, turn off the heat and garnish your Batata Nu Shaak with freshly chopped green coriander. Serve it hot with boondi raita and puri for a delightful lunch or dinner experience.
Serving Suggestions
Batata Nu Shaak is not just a dish; it’s an experience that celebrates the essence of Gujarati cuisine. For the best culinary experience, serve it alongside:
- Boondi Raita: A refreshing yogurt-based side that complements the spicy notes of the curry.
- Puri: Deep-fried bread that pairs excellently with the rich flavors of the shak.
- Steamed Rice: For a simple yet satisfying meal, serve this dish over fragrant basmati rice.
Conclusion
Batata Nu Shaak is a quintessential Gujarati dish that encapsulates the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals. With its vibrant colors and harmonious flavors, this potato curry not only nourishes the body but also uplifts the spirit, making it a must-try for anyone who wishes to delve into the heart of Indian culinary traditions. Embrace this recipe, savor the delightful combination of spices, and enjoy the wholesome goodness that Batata Nu Shaak has to offer. Happy cooking!
