Cumin Seed Potatoes Batata Bkamun From Qutar Recipes

BATATA NU SHAK (POTATO CURRY)

Steps:

• Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the cumin seeds, mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and red chile peppers in the oil until the seeds begin to splutter. Stir the asafoetida powder into the mixture. Add the onion, ginger, and turmeric; cook and stir for a few minutes. Add the tomato and simmer until the tomatoes are soft. Sprinkle the ground cumin, coriander, and ground red pepper over the mixture.
• Fold the potatoes into the mixture until coated. Pour the water into the skillet; season with the sugar and salt. Cover and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes. The gravy should be nicely thickened. If not, add a teaspoon of chickpea flour to thicken it. Garnish with the cilantro to serve.

INDIAN CUMIN POTATOES ( JEERA ALOO )

Steps:

• Wash, peel and cut potatoes in 3/4 dice or wedges, or leave skin on if you prefer.
• Bring potatoes to a boil in water and 1/2 t salt. Cover and let boil for 5-8 minutes until just cooked.
• Drain and let steam off moisture until they have a sort of dry outer skin, 10-15 minutes, or let cool completely and keep in the fridge up to 2 days. Make sure they are dry before frying.
• Heat oil in a large non-stick pan over medium high heat. Add cumin seeds and fry 30-60 seconds until they turn a shade darker and give off smell.
• Add potatoes and sprinkle with turmeric. Shake pan and fry potatoes about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until evenly golden and crisp. The trick is not to stir too frequently, so that a crust can develop.
• Sprinkle with coriander or parsley and taste with salt. Shake pan to mix and serve. You can drain potatoes on paper towels first, before adding the fresh herbs if you like.
• NOTE: The recipe can be done with other starchy vegetables like sweet potatoes or plantains, but I never tried those.