Bihari Style Aloo Ka Chokha Recipe – Spiced & Mashed Potatoes with Mustard Oil
A deliciously spiced mashed potato dish, Aloo Ka Chokha, is a quintessential part of Bihari cuisine. This traditional dish, often paired with Litti or Phulkas, brings out the rich flavors of mustard oil, green chilies, and fresh coriander. Simple yet flavorful, it’s the perfect side dish for your lunch or dinner table.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (Aloo) – boiled | 4 potatoes |
| Green Chilies – finely chopped | 2 green chilies |
| Onions – finely chopped | 2 onions |
| Red Chilli Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Mustard Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Coriander (Dhania) Leaves – finely chopped | 4 sprigs |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 140 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Sodium | 120mg |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Bihari
Course: Side Dish / Lunch
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Boil the Potatoes:
Start by boiling the potatoes in a pressure cooker until they are soft and fully cooked. You can also boil them in a regular pot, but a pressure cooker ensures faster and even cooking. Once boiled, peel the potatoes and mash them using a fork or potato masher in a mixing bowl. Set the mashed potatoes aside. -
-
Cook the Onions and Green Chilies:
Heat the mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté them for a few minutes, allowing the onions to soften and turn translucent. The green chilies will add a bit of heat, so you can adjust their quantity according to your preference for spice. -
Add the Mashed Potatoes:
Once the onions and chilies are soft, add the mashed potatoes to the pan. Sprinkle in the salt and red chili powder. Stir everything together, ensuring that the potatoes are well coated with the spices and onions. Cook the mixture for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Adjust the Seasoning:
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or chili powder if needed. The key to a great Aloo Ka Chokha is balancing the heat from the chilies with the richness of the mustard oil and the mellow taste of the potatoes. -
Finish with Fresh Coriander:
Finally, stir in the freshly chopped coriander leaves (dhania). The fresh herbs will add a burst of color and flavor to the dish, making it more aromatic and appetizing. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Your Bihari Style Aloo Ka Chokha is now ready to be served! This dish is best enjoyed with traditional Bihari Litti, soft Phulkas, or a bowl of Kadhi. It also pairs beautifully with other vegetable dishes or dal for a wholesome meal.
Pro Tips:
- Mustard Oil: The distinct pungent flavor of mustard oil is essential in this recipe to bring out the authentic taste of the dish. However, if you don’t have mustard oil, you can substitute it with regular vegetable or olive oil, though the flavor may differ slightly.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the quantity of green chilies and red chili powder according to your spice tolerance. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the chilies or skip the red chili powder entirely.
- Add Garlic or Ginger: For an extra layer of flavor, you can add minced garlic or grated ginger when sautéing the onions. It adds a slight warmth and depth to the dish.
Why You’ll Love Bihari Style Aloo Ka Chokha:
Aloo Ka Chokha is a versatile dish that can complement a variety of meals. The comforting mashed potatoes, spiced with red chili powder and tangy mustard oil, are a great accompaniment to flatbreads or rice. It is a perfect dish to prepare when you’re looking for something quick, flavorful, and filling. Plus, it’s entirely vegetarian, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
Enjoy your Bihari-style meal with the heartwarming flavors of Aloo Ka Chokha – a true representation of the vibrant and rich culinary heritage of Bihar. Whether you’re sharing it with family or serving it at your next dinner party, this simple yet flavorful side dish will surely be a crowd-pleaser.
