Aloo Jeera – India

Aloo Jeera (Potatoes with Cumin Seeds) Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons oil (preferably mustard or vegetable oil)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped, for garnish
• 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

• Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes. Rinse the potatoes in cold water to remove excess starch. Drain well.

2. Heat the Oil:

• Heat the oil in a deep skillet or pan over medium heat. Mustard oil adds an authentic flavor, but you can use any vegetable oil as an alternative.

3. Add Cumin Seeds:

• Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until they release their aroma and turn slightly brown. Be careful not to burn them.

4. Add Potatoes:

• Carefully add the cubed potatoes to the pan. Stir well to coat the potatoes evenly with the cumin seeds and oil. Cook the potatoes on medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Add Spices:

• Sprinkle the turmeric powder, red chili powder, ground coriander, ground cumin, and salt over the potatoes. If you’re using green chilies and ginger-garlic paste, add them now. Mix everything well so that the potatoes are coated with the spices evenly.

6. Cook Until Tender:

• Cover the pan and let the potatoes cook on medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the potatoes are tender. This should take about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your potato cubes. If the potatoes start sticking to the pan, you can add a splash of water.

7. Garnish and Serve:

• Once the potatoes are cooked through and have absorbed all the flavors, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro leaves.
• Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice. Aloo Jeera makes a delightful side dish in any Indian meal.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Aloo Jeera!