Aloo Masala literally translates to Potato with Spices. In most Indian households, pantry staples like onions, tomatoes and potatoes, along with some basic spices are what people often depend on when they’re short on time or creativity. And it is no surprise that just with these, you can create a pretty hearty meal to feed the whole family.
On most days, by the time we all get home in the evenings, we are starving and craving for a warm home-cooked meal. And more often than not, I am too tired to whip up anything extra than a quick one-pot meal. Since Hubby Dear has been out of town since the past two weeks, I’ve found myself spending much less time in my kitchen. Little Dude and I take it easy when it’s just the two of us, and we can be just as happy opening up a pack of instant noodles or having a grilled cheese sandwich for dinner.
But last night, as we were huddled indoors amidst a wild snow storm, I started craving a good home-cooked Indian meal. Something wholesome, fulfilling and delicious – like this Aloo Masala recipe. And not to mention, quick! Oh yes, it just had to be quick. We were tired and hungry, and really just wanted to wrap ourselves in our blankets in front of the blazing fireplace and catch up on our current k-drama episodes. Yes, in case I haven’t mentioned it – we’re kdrama addicts. Thank you pandemic!
As I set my favourite Dal to cook in my trustly Instant Pot alongside some steaming rice, I thought of making a really quick side dish. No guesses as to what it would be made of. I walked into my pantry and found them – a nice big bowl of baby potatoes, perfect for this Aloo Masala recipe!
Potatoes are easily one of the staples of a classic Indian meal. It is also one of the most versatile and beautiful vegetables I know and love. I let a batch of them boil just until tender and the stage was then set for a wonderfully delicious and fulfilling dinner!
Aloo Masala (Sauteed Potatoes with Spices)
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp light cooking oil
- 1 tsp whole cumin seeds
- 1 tbsp finely chopped ginger
- 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
- 1 medium-sized onion finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp red chilli powder
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tbsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 15-20 baby potatoes boiled until tender, and halved
- salt to taste
- a handful of fresh cilantro finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large non-stick pan on medium-high heat and add in the cumin seeds. As soon as they start to sizzle, add in ginger, garlic and onions, and stir-fry for a couple of minutes until the onions start to brown along the edges.
- Mix in the spices and tomato paste, and stir-fry for a few seconds to mix everything.
- Add in the potatoes and salt, mix well and let it cook for another 5-6 minutes on medium-low heat until the potatoes start to crisp along the edges.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve warm.
This post was originally published in July 2006 and has been recently updated.
If you enjoyed this recipe, then you will surely love my Jeera Aloo, Crispy Chilli Potatoes and Aloo Baingan recipe as well.
Tried this recipe? Leave a Comment and let me know, also Rate it by clicking the number of stars on the recipe card. Want to share your version with me? Tag me on Instagram @hookedonheat
Meena you have an excellent blog!I went through all your archives and have found so many wonderful dishes that i have to try ,I dont know from where to begin?!Keep up your excellent work!
Thanks so much for your kind words, Sumitha. I’m glad you enjoy reading my posts. Let me know if you try any of the recipes. 😮
Yumminess personified!
Thanks Vinesh!
Hmmm this is the only part I like when dear hubby is out of town. There are a few dishes my husband hates but I love. As soon as he leaves home, I will cook one of those dish. I will be eating the same thing until he is back!
The picture of your potato dish looks so good.
Hehe, that’s a smart thing to do, RP!! 😮
The weather here (in Richmond, Virginia, USA) has been grey and rainy for a few days. Your potato dish sounds like a perfect pick-me-up! Thank you. 🙂
Thanks Shaula! Let me know how you like it! 🙂
Hey Meena, I tried your kadai chicken recipe today. It was great. I didnt even know you had posted the recipe, it came through on google blog search and I was so happy to see such a simple recipe. Cheers
Thanks Ashwini! I’m glad you enjoyed it. Sometimes, it’s the simplicity in a dish that makes it so delicious! 🙂
You present every dish so beautifully. Kudos to you…
Thanks a lot, Spice. What a sweet thing to say! 😮
This does look perfectly simple and appetizing!
Paz
It sure is Paz, do try it out and let me know how you like it! 🙂
I exactly know what u r talking about… Someone-please have-the-food-ready-when-i-reach-home Syndrome eh ? 🙂
Oh yea, Revathi! That’s exactly what I’m talking about! 😮
Hmm..Dal and sukhe alu a comforting combo indeed! Shall i join you Meena?
Ohh, you are most welcome anytime, Arsu! Shall I set a plate for you? 🙂
Haha…it was a nice read..even I cudnt care less abt cooking if there was no one arnd to eat what I cook !! And dal+aloo+rice is a wonderful combo. But do take care of urself 🙂
Thanks Priya! Dal, Rice and Alu is an awesome comfort combo. And to mention it’s also one of the easiest and healthiest meals to prepare!