Aloo Posto Recipe
Aloo Posto Recipe: Aloo Posto is a traditional Bengali dish that is a popular main course dish. It is made from potatoes and a special type of poppy seed paste known as posto, which is cooked with a variety of spices and seasonings to create a flavorful and delicious dish. Aloo Posto is typically served with steamed rice and is a staple dish during special occasions and festivals.
What is Aloo Posto?
Aloo Posto is a classic Bengali dish made with boiled potatoes smothered in a nutty, creamy sauce made from a blend of poppy seeds and spices. The dish is traditionally made with white poppy seeds, which are ground into a paste and mixed with spices such as green chilies, salt, and turmeric. This mixture is then simmered in oil or ghee until it thickens and the flavors meld together. The end result is a flavorful and comforting dish that is often served with rice or roti.
Variations of Aloo Posto
There are several variations of Aloo Posto, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some variations include the use of different types of vegetables, such as cauliflower or green beans, which add a different texture and flavor to the dish. Another variation is the addition of different spices, such as mustard or cumin, which add a subtle warmth and depth of flavor to the dish. Some recipes also include the use of yogurt or coconut milk, which add a creamy and rich texture to the dish. Aloo Posto with Paneer adds cubes of paneer to the sauce, while Aloo Posto with Fish adds a flaky white fish, such as cod or haddock, to the sauce. Aloo Posto with Chicken adds diced chicken breast to the sauce.
Nutrition – Aloo Posto
Aloo Posto is a nutritious and healthy dish that is high in potassium and vitamins C and B6. Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium and vitamins C and B6, which are essential for maintaining a healthy diet. The dish is also relatively low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option for those watching their diet.
Step by Step Aloo Posto Recipe
Aloo Posto Recipe
Ingredients
Ingredients
- For Posto Paste
- 3 tbsp poppy seeds / khus khus khus khus
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tbsp water
Other Ingredients
- 2 potatoes
- 2 tbsp Oil
- 1 tsp Cumin (Jeera)
- ¼ tbsp turmeric powder
- Salt
- ¼ tsp Red Chilli Powder optional
- ½ tsp nigella seeds/ kalonji
- 2 green chillies
- ½ cup water
Instructions
Preparation
- Assemble all ingredients together to avoid last minute rush.
- Peel and chop potatoes in small pieces. Next, dip them in water to get rid of starch.
For Posto Paste
- Soak poppy seeds in ¼ cup water overnight. In case you forget soaking, then soak at least for a couple of hours in warm water.
- After soaking, drain all the water using a fine mesh strainer.
- Take a small chutney grinder and add the poppy seeds in it with 1 tbsp water.
- Grind to a fine paste. Add more water if required while grinding.
Cooking
- Heat mustard oil in a Pan or Kadai and let it smoke over medium flame.
- Then, lower the flame and add nigella seeds/ kalonji and cumin seeds.
- Stir quickly and sauté for a few seconds.
- Then, add the poppy seeds paste and mix with cumin and nigella seeds.
- Then, add chopped potatoes. Mix well and incorporate everything well.
- Cook potatoes over low to medium flame, stirring at occasionally, till tender.
- Then, add red chili powder (if using), salt and turmeric powder. Mix with the potatoes and sauté for few seconds till spices are aromatic.
- Now add ½ cup water or as required. Aloo Posto has a dry to semi-dry consistency, but if you want a gravy consistency feel free to add more water.
- Mix very well. Cover and simmer till potatoes are cooked properly.
- At the end, add green chillies and sauté till all the water dries up.
- Serve with luchi (poori) or steamed rice.
Equipment Used for This Recipe
Notes & Tips
- Aloo Posto is typically served with steamed rice and is a staple dish during special occasions and festivals in Bengal.
- The dish can be made with different types of vegetables, such as cauliflower or green beans, which add a different texture and flavor to the dish.
- The dish can be made milder by reducing the amount of green chilies used.
- The dish can be made spicier by adding more green chilies or red chili powder.
- Some variations of the dish include the use of yogurt or coconut milk, which add a creamy and rich texture to the dish.
- The dish can also be made with different types of oils, such as mustard oil or coconut oil, which add a different flavor to the dish.
Nutrition Information (Note: Approximate)
FAQs – Aloo Posto Recipe
What is Aloo Posto?
Aloo Posto is a popular dish in the eastern region of India, particularly in Bengal. It is a simple yet flavorful dish made of potatoes cooked in a smooth and creamy paste of poppy seeds. The dish has a delicate and nutty flavor, with the soft and tender potatoes providing a contrasting texture. It is often served with steamed rice and can also be paired with rotis or flatbreads.
What are the ingredients required for Aloo Posto?
The key ingredients for Aloo Posto are potatoes, poppy seeds, green chili, and a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Some variations also include the addition of mustard oil, which enhances the flavors and aroma of the dish. The dish is usually cooked with a minimal amount of oil, making it a healthy and nutritious option for those who are health-conscious.
How to make Aloo Posto at home?
Making Aloo Posto at home is quite simple and can be done in a few easy steps. First, the poppy seeds are soaked and ground into a smooth paste. Then, the potatoes are boiled and sautéed with the ground paste, spices, and green chili. The dish is simmered until the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency. It is then garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and served hot with rice or rotis.
What are the variations of Aloo Posto?
There are various regional variations of Aloo Posto, with each having its unique twist. Some popular variations include adding grated coconut, mustard paste, or even tamarind pulp to the dish. Another popular variation is the use of besan or gram flour instead of poppy seeds, which results in a different texture and flavor.
How to serve Aloo Posto?
Aloo Posto is typically served hot with steamed rice or rotis. It can also be served as a side dish with a dal and rice combination. For those who prefer a vegan option, the dish can be made without the addition of mustard oil.
What are the health benefits of Aloo Posto?
Aloo Posto is a healthy dish, as it is low in fat and high in fiber. The dish is also rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, which makes it an ideal option for those who are health-conscious. The poppy seeds used in the dish are also believed to have several health benefits, including reducing inflammation and promoting healthy skin and hair.
What are some tips to make Aloo Posto even better?
To make Aloo Posto even better, it is important to use the freshest ingredients possible. Using high-quality spices and good quality poppy seeds can enhance the flavors and aroma of the dish. Additionally, simmering the dish over low heat for a longer time can also help to develop the flavors and make the dish even more delicious.
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