Baby potatoes covered in a spicy masala coating, perfect side dish or afternoon snack!
Masala Aloo or spicy potatoes are a treat for those who love spicy Chatpata foods. There are many variations of potatoes covered in a blend of spices in a dry coating or lightly saucy consistency. They can be served as a side dish or a snack along with a cup of Masala Chai. With a more gravy consistency they can be enjoyed with naan or roti. Humble bland potatoes are a perfect vegetable that takes on the spicy, sweet, and tart flavors.
Here is my variation inspired by my dear friend Lubaina! This is easy and can be ready in 15 mins or less in 3 simple steps. Boil potatoes, make sauce and mix together, simple! The tartness of the tomatoes, spicy chili sauce and some sweetness from ketchup is a perfect balance of flavors. This is a great option for a quick party dish or a potluck especially for vegetarians.
The secret ingredient here is the Sambal Oelek Chili Sauce which is a Chinese chili sauce readily available in Asian stores or Amazon online.
Makes 4 servings
Time: 15 mins
Ingredients:
- 24 oz bag of baby potatoes (with skin on) or 3 cups of pealed large potatoes diced (larger ones can be peeled)
- 3 tbsps oil
- 1 tsp Mustard seeds (rai)
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 6 curry leaves
- 1 tbsp garlic crushed, diced or sliced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste or 1/4 cup tomato sauce (this is not the same as ketchup)
- 1 tbsp of Ketchup
- 2-3 tbsps Sambal Oelek Chili Paste (chinese style chili sauce). Adjust to how spicy you like it.
- 1 tsp chaat masala (I like the MDH brand)
- 1/3 cup water
- 2/3 tsp salt
- 1/8 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
Method:
- Boil potatoes, you can keep skin in if you like. To maintain shape, do not overcook them. Wavy potatoes work better than baking ones which are more mashy. Set aside.
- In a pot, on medium high heat add oil, curry leaves, and rai. Stir fry for about 2 mins till they splutter.
- Add garlic and stir fry for another min till lightly browned.
- Add the tomatoes, chili sauce all the powder spices, salt and water. Cook for 2 mins till they bubble.
- Add in the boiled potatoes, stir till they are coated in the sauce.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro leaves
- Enjoy!
Tips:
- This can be made a day ahead, perfect for entertaining or taking for a potluck.
- It can be eaten hot, warm or at room temperature making it perfect for picnics as well.
- If the potatoes overcook and become mashy, no worries, use it as a stuffing for sandwiches. Keeping the skin on will help keep the potatoes together.