Potatoes, or “Aloo” as they are fondly called in India, are a versatile ingredient like paneer that can effortlessly elevate any meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a hearty main course, this root vegetable fits perfectly into various cuisines, offering endless possibilities for delicious creations. From crispy starters to creamy curries, there’s a potato recipe to suit every palate and occasion. In this blog, we bring you a curated selection of mouth-watering Aloo recipes for practical Indian cooking that is sure to add flavour, spice, and variety to your dinner menu. So, get ready to explore these delightful dishes that can elevate your cooking skills, whether you are a newbie or one with decades of experience.
1. Aloo Tikki: The perfect starter
Aloo Tikki is a quintessential Indian appetizer that never fails to delight taste buds. The crisp exterior and soft potato filling make it an ideal starter for any meal. Aloo Tikki is a crowd-pleaser at gatherings and adds a touch of nostalgia to any dining experience. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with other dishes, Aloo Tikki is sure to kick-start your dinner on a delightful note.
Recipe of Aloo Tikki
- Blend boiled potatoes with spices like cumin powder, garam masala, chili powder, coriander powder, and turmeric powder.
- Shape the mixture into patties and pan-fry until golden brown.
- Serve hot with mint chutney or tamarind sauce for an extra burst of flavour.
2. Masala Aloo: For a spicy touch
Masala Aloo is a delectable dish that adds a spicy kick to your dinner spread. This potato curry is a blend of aromatic spices like garam masala, ginger garlic paste, cumin seeds, and turmeric. Masala Aloo pairs perfectly with roti, poori, or veg pulao, making it a versatile and satisfying choice for a hearty meal. Spice things up with Masala Aloo tonight!
Recipe of Masala Aloo
- Start by sautéing the cumin seeds and spices to release their essence.
- Add 1 inch cubes of potatoes and let them cook until tender.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty finish.
3. Aloo Paratha: A filling main course
Aloo Paratha is a quintessential Indian dish that combines the goodness of spiced potatoes with the comfort of a hearty flatbread. You need to serve this dish hot with a dollop of butter, yoghurt, or pickles for a truly satisfying meal. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of Aloo Paratha as a delightful main course option.
Recipe of Aloo Paratha
- Pressure cook potatoes with a tsp salt and mash them.
- Mix them with spices like cumin seeds, turmeric, and green chillies.
- Stuff this flavorful mixture into a dough made of whole wheat flour and roll it out into a flatbread.
- Cook it on a stovetop at medium heat until golden brown, adding ghee or oil for that perfect crispiness.
4. Dum Aloo: A luxurious treat
Dum Aloo, a dish that spells indulgence, is a luxurious treat for your taste buds. This potato-based delicacy hails from the heart of Indian cuisine and is known for the aromatic spices you feel in every bite. The magic lies in the slow cooking process, allowing the potatoes to soak up the essence of the rich gravy infused with a blend of garam masala, turmeric, and other spices.
Recipe of Dum Aloo
- Boil, peel, and lightly fry small potatoes until golden.
- Blend sautéed onions, tomatoes, and spices into a paste.
- Simmer potatoes in the gravy with a bit of water until tender.
- Stir in yoghurt or cream, add some kasuri methi, cook briefly, and serve hot.
5. Aloo Chaat: Street food at home
Aloo chaat is a delightful street food favourite that you can now recreate at home. This popular dish combines the goodness of boiled potatoes with an array of tantalizing spices and chutneys. Whether served as a snack or side dish, this dish is sure to impress with its authentic Indian taste and crunchy textures. Enjoy a taste of the bustling streets right in your own home.
Recipe of Aloo Chaat
- Start by boiling and cubing potatoes in an instant pot to achieve the perfect texture.
- Toss them with tangy tamarind chutney, spicy green chilies, and aromatic cumin seeds.
- Garnish your Aloo Chaat with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Jeera Aloo: Simple yet flavourful
Jeera Aloo or Aloo Jeera is a delightful dish combining the aroma of cumin seeds with the humble potato. This simple yet flavorful recipe is a staple in Indian cuisine, loved for its aromatic jeera and soft, spiced potatoes. Jeera Aloo pairs perfectly with dal rice or roti, making it a versatile side dish for any meal. Enjoy the comforting taste of this Jeera Aloo recipe, a true crowd-pleaser.
Recipe of Jeera Aloo
- Start by sautéing cumin seeds in oil until they release their aroma.
- Add cubed potatoes, turmeric, and the necessary teaspoon salt, allowing the potatoes to cook until tender.
- Finish off with a sprinkle of garam masala and garnish with fresh coriander leaves for a burst of freshness.
7. Aloo Gobi – A vegetarian delight
Aloo Gobi, a classic North Indian dish, combines the earthy flavours of potatoes and cauliflower, creating a comforting and nutritious vegetarian delight. This dish is a staple in Indian households, offering a perfect balance of textures and spices. Aloo Gobi is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side or main course, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
Recipe of Aloo Gobi
- Start by sautéing cumin seeds in a stovetop pressure cooker
- Add cubed potatoes and cauliflower florets in low flame.
- Enhance the flavours with turmeric, garam masala, and green chillies, allowing the vegetables to cook until tender.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve this aromatic dish with jeera rice or roti for a wholesome meal.
8. Aloo Matar – Peas and potato magic
Aloo Matar is a delightful dish that combines green peas and potatoes in a harmonious union. The peas add a burst of freshness, while the potatoes bring a comforting and hearty element to the dish. This classic combination is a staple in Indian cuisine and is known for its simplicity and delightful taste.
Recipe of Aloo Matar
- Sauté chopped onions, tomatoes, ginger, and garlic until soft.
- Mix in cumin, turmeric, coriander, and red chilli powder; cook briefly.
- Add diced potatoes, peas in enough water; simmer until tender.
- Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot with naans and kulchas.
9. Aloo Bhindi: An unconventional twist
Aloo Bhindi is a unique dish that combines the earthiness of potatoes with the crunch of okra, creating a delightful medley of tastes and textures. This unconventional twist in Indian cuisine brings together the goodness of two versatile vegetables, making it a perfect side dish for any meal including cooked basmati rice, plain rice, or veg pulao. Aloo Bhindi is a must-try for those looking to add a new dimension to their culinary repertoire.
Recipe of Aloo Bhindi
- Sauté the okra and potatoes in low heat.
- Add 1 teaspoon cumin, turmeric, and garam masala.
- Sauté until they are fork tender but crispy.
- Add green chili and coriander leaves to enhance the dish with a hint of spiciness and freshness.
10. Schezwan Aloo – Indo-Chinese fusion
Schezwan Aloo combines the aromatic Indian cuisine with the fiery kick of Chinese cuisine, resulting in a tantalizing Indo-Chinese fusion. This innovative dish typically features stir-fried potatoes coated in a spicy Schezwan sauce, creating a mouthwatering blend of spices and textures.
Recipe of Schezwan Aloo
- Saute cumin seeds and green chilies in a stovetop pressure cooker.
- Add cubed potatoes and cook until golden brown.
- Add fresh capsicum and other veggies if required.
- Incorporate the Schezwan sauce, a mix of garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and red chilli paste.
- Allow the potatoes to simmer in the sauce, ensuring they absorb the flavours thoroughly.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Wrap Up
These delightful Aloo recipes are sure to add a delightful touch to your dinner menu. So go ahead and elevate your dining experience with these easy-to-follow recipes that bring a taste of tradition and innovation to your table. Whether you’re a fan of street food or prefer a luxurious treat, these dishes are perfect for any occasion. For more such recipes, visit our website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best potatoes for Indian Aloo recipes?
Russet potatoes are ideal for dishes where a fluffy texture is desired, while baby potatoes work well for curries and gravies as they hold their shape well. Ultimately, the best potato for your dish depends on the desired texture, flavour, and cooking time.
Can I make these Aloo dishes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Most of these Aloo dishes are perfect for meal prep. Cook them in advance, store them in the refrigerator, and reheat them using your preferred method when ready to serve. This will save you time and make your dinner routine a breeze.
Are there any vegan options among these Aloo recipes?
Many of these recipes are naturally vegan or can be easily adapted. Simply replace dairy products like yoghurt or butter with plant-based alternatives, such as almond yoghurt or vegan butter.
What are some other dishes that can be made with potatoes?
Some of the other popular dishes made of Aloo include Aloo Methi, made using fenugreek leaves, the simple potato fry, the flavourful Malai Kofta, and the rich Mughlai Aloo.