Jeera Aloo or Spiced Cumin Potatoes is a classic and flavorful North Indian dish, typically served as a side dish with lentils (daal) and rice or rotis. A delicious combination of spices creates a unique flavour that pairs well with potatoes. This recipe is perfect for beginners because it's quick and easy to make from scratch—no pre-cooking required!
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Wash and peel potatoes. Cut them in small cubes (about 1 inch wide) or as desired.
Keep the spices (asafoetida, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, mustard seed, red chilli powder, chopped green chillies, turmeric powder, curry leaves, dried pomogranate seeds, dried coriander seeds, and garam masala) in a plate, ready for tempering.
Heat oil in a pan on low-to-medium flame and add asafoetida, cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Stir till they crackle. Add the curry leaves and continue stirring for a few seconds.
Turn the flame down to low. Add salt, turmeric powder, red chilli powder, green chillies, and stir for a few seconds.
Add chopped potatoes and mix well.
Optional: Add ground tomatoes or tomato puree and mix well on low flame for 2 minutes.
Sprinkle some water and stir. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 5-8 minutes on low to medium flame until the potatoes are tender.
Add coriander powder, pomegranate seeds and dried fenugreek leaves. Mix gently and let it cook for 2 minutes.
Season with garam masala. Serve hot with lentils (daal) of your choice and roti or rice.
Instead of dried pomegranate seeds (amchur), you can also add lemon juice in the end.
Ginger-garlic paste can also be added to the tempering to make the dish more flavourful.
Ensure the spices are tempered on a low flame to avoid burning them.
What is the best way to cook Jeera Aloo for beginners?
Jeera Aloo is perfect for beginners as it requires no pre-cooking. Simply wash and peel the potatoes, cube them, and follow the step-by-step method of tempering spices and cooking the potatoes until tender. The entire process is straightforward and can be completed in under 30 minutes.
Can I make Jeera Aloo vegan or vegetarian?
Yes, Jeera Aloo is naturally vegan and vegetarian. It is made with potatoes and spices, making it a great side dish for those following a plant-based diet. Just ensure that the oil you use is plant-based, and you can enjoy this flavorful dish without any animal products.
What are some good substitutions for ingredients in Jeera Aloo?
If you don't have certain spices on hand, you can substitute asafoetida with garlic powder for a different flavor. Instead of dried fenugreek leaves, you can use fresh fenugreek if available. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red chili powder and green chilies to suit your taste.
How should I store leftover Jeera Aloo?
Leftover Jeera Aloo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it for a quick reheating option.
What dishes pair well with Jeera Aloo?
Jeera Aloo pairs beautifully with lentils (daal) and is often served alongside rice or roti. You can also enjoy it with yogurt or a side salad for a complete meal. The spiced potatoes complement the flavors of Indian curries and can be a delightful addition to any Indian feast.
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