Jeera Aloo (Cumin Potatoes)
Description: A delightful and flavorful dish, Jeera Aloo or Cumin Potatoes, offers a perfect balance of spices with tender potatoes, making it a popular vegetarian choice in Indian cuisine. With a medium spice level, this dish is both comforting and aromatic.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 6
Dietary Information: Vegetarian
Spice Level: Medium
Views: 95,509
Rating: 3.6/5 (Based on 70 votes)
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes, boiled and cubed | 4 medium-sized potatoes |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tbsp |
| Coriander seeds | 1 tbsp |
| Cumin seeds | 2 tsp |
| Green chillies, slit lengthways | 2 |
| Fresh ginger, sliced thinly | 3 cm piece |
| Red chilli powder | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric powder | ¼ tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mango powder (Amchoor powder) | 2 tsp |
| Fresh coriander leaves, chopped | A handful |
Allergen Information:
This recipe is nut-free and contains no dairy. It is safe for individuals with dairy or nut allergies. However, it is always advised to check for any cross-contamination when using packaged ingredients, such as the spices.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegetarian-Friendly: This dish contains no meat or animal-derived products, making it perfect for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: No gluten-containing ingredients are used in this recipe.
- Vegan: Since no dairy is used, this dish is also suitable for a vegan diet.
- Low in Fat: Using minimal oil and no heavy ingredients, Jeera Aloo can be a great option for those looking for lighter dishes.
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Potatoes:
Begin by boiling the potatoes with their skin on for about 10 minutes until they are tender. Once cooled, peel the potatoes and cut them into 4cm cubes. Set them aside. -
Roast and Crush the Spices:
In a dry pan, gently roast the coriander seeds and 1 tsp of cumin seeds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once roasted, remove them from the heat and allow them to cool slightly before crushing them into a coarse powder. -
Cook the Aromatics:
In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the remaining cumin seeds. When they begin to sizzle and release their fragrance, stir in the sliced green chillies and thinly sliced ginger. Sauté the ingredients for a few seconds, allowing the flavors to combine. -
Add Spices and Potatoes:
Reduce the heat slightly and add the freshly crushed coriander and cumin powder, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, and salt to the pan. Stir the spices together and let them cook for a moment, creating a fragrant base.
Now, add the boiled and cubed potatoes to the pan. Mix them gently to coat the potatoes well with the spices. Take care not to mash the potatoes—ensure they remain in their cube shape. -
Simmer and Stir:
Let the potatoes cook on low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the potatoes to absorb the flavors and spices, giving them a rich taste without turning into a mash. -
Finish with Mango Powder and Garnish:
Once the potatoes are well-cooked and coated with the spices, add the amchoor powder (mango powder) to give the dish a slight tang. Stir well and then garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder version, you can reduce the amount of green chillies or omit them entirely. Alternatively, for a spicier kick, you can add an extra pinch of red chilli powder or a chopped green chilli.
- Add Vegetables: You can include additional vegetables, such as peas or carrots, for added texture and nutrition.
- Serve with Roti or Rice: Jeera Aloo pairs beautifully with soft roti (Indian flatbread) or steamed basmati rice for a wholesome meal.
- Make it Crispier: For a crispy texture, after the potatoes are coated with the spices, let them cook for a few extra minutes until they turn golden and crisp.
Conclusion:
Jeera Aloo is a simple yet flavorful dish that elevates the humble potato with aromatic spices. It’s a popular side dish in Indian cuisine, often served with chapati, rice, or even as a stand-alone snack. Its rich, spicy flavor with a hint of tang from the amchoor powder is sure to be a hit at your dining table. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re in the mood for a comforting vegetarian meal.
Let your kitchen fill with the delightful aromas of cumin and coriander as you cook up this beloved Indian dish, Jeera Aloo.
