Patiala Aloo Recipe – A Flavorful North Indian Delight
Patiala Aloo is a flavorful, tangy, and spicy potato dish hailing from the rich culinary traditions of North India. Known for its aromatic spices and a tangy twist from tamarind and tomato, this dish is both easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. It’s the perfect comfort food when served with hot phulkas (Indian flatbreads) or alongside dal (lentil curry). Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation steps to make this delightful recipe!
Ingredients for Patiala Aloo Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes | 5 (peeled and chopped) |
| Mustard oil (or any other oil) | 2 tbsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Asafoetida (hing) | A pinch |
| Fenugreek seeds (methi) | 1/4 tsp |
| Green chili (chopped) | 1 |
| Red chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Cumin powder | 1 tsp |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Coriander powder | 1 tsp |
| Amchur (dry mango powder) | 1/2 tsp |
| Chaat masala powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Garam masala powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves) | 1 tsp |
| Tomato puree | 1/3 cup |
| Tamarind paste | 2 tsp |
| Fresh coriander (finely chopped) | 1/3 cup |
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
| Sugar | 4 g |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.)
Preparation Time
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
Instructions for Making Patiala Aloo
-
Prep the Potatoes:
Begin by peeling and chopping the potatoes into medium-sized pieces. Place them in water to prevent browning while you prepare the other ingredients. -
Heat the Oil:
In a deep pan or kadhai, heat the mustard oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. Immediately add the bay leaf, fenugreek seeds, and a pinch of asafoetida. Sauté the spices for a few seconds until aromatic. -
Cook the Potatoes:
Drain the potatoes from the water and add them to the pan. Stir well, and cook for a minute. Add chopped green chili, salt, and turmeric powder, mixing everything well. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure the potatoes don’t stick to the bottom. -
Add the Spices:
Once the potatoes are cooked, add the red chili powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, amchur powder (dry mango powder), chaat masala powder, and garam masala powder. Mix everything thoroughly. Add a little water to adjust the consistency of the curry to your liking. -
Tomato and Tamarind:
Add the tomato puree and tamarind paste to the pan. Stir well and cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Garnish and Serve:
Once the curry has thickened and the potatoes are well coated with the masala, turn off the heat. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped green coriander for a burst of color and flavor. -
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Patiala Aloo hot with phulkas (Indian flatbread), parathas, or as a side dish with dal (lentil curry). This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad and a cooling raita for a well-rounded meal.
Tips for a Perfect Patiala Aloo
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder version, reduce the quantity of red chili powder and green chili. You can also omit the green chili entirely for a more subtle flavor.
- Add More Tamarind: For an extra tangy twist, feel free to add more tamarind paste to suit your taste.
- Flavor Variations: While mustard oil adds a unique flavor, you can use any other oil such as vegetable oil or ghee if you prefer.
- Make It Vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan and dairy-free, making it a great option for various dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love Patiala Aloo
This Patiala Aloo recipe is an aromatic, spicy dish with the perfect balance of tanginess from tamarind and the earthy flavors of traditional Indian spices. It’s simple enough for everyday meals yet special enough to serve at a gathering. Plus, the versatility of this dish makes it an excellent addition to your regular menu, whether paired with a simple dal and rice or served as a part of a lavish Indian feast.
By following these straightforward instructions, you can recreate this classic North Indian recipe in your own kitchen and enjoy the delightful flavors of Patiala Aloo anytime.
Enjoy your meal!
