Looking for a quick, delicious, and comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with rice or chapati? Potato Mezhukkupuratti is a classic Kerala-style stir-fried potato dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the recipe!
What is Potato Mezhukkupuratti?
Potato Mezhukkupuratti is a traditional Kerala dish where potatoes are stir-fried with aromatic spices, shallots, and curry leaves. The term “mezhukkupuratti” refers to a cooking technique where ingredients are sautéed in minimal oil until well-cooked and flavorful. This dish is known for its simplicity, bold flavors, and versatility as a side dish.
Ingredients (Serves 4-5)
Here’s what you’ll need:
-
3 medium-sized potatoes (peeled and chopped into small pieces)
-
3 tablespoons oil (coconut oil or any cooking oil)
-
½ teaspoon mustard seeds
-
3 dried red chilies (cut in half)
-
5 cloves of garlic (crushed)
-
15 shallots (crushed, or 1 medium-sized onion, sliced)
-
A few curry leaves
-
¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
-
1½ teaspoons chili powder
-
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
-
Optional: Chopped coriander leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Tempering
-
Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat.
-
Once the oil is hot, add ½ teaspoon of mustard seeds and let them pop.
-
Lower the flame to the lowest setting and add 3 dried red chilies and 5 crushed garlic cloves. Sauté for 4-5 seconds.
2. Sauté the Shallots (or Onions)
-
Add 15 crushed shallots (or 1 sliced onion) and a few curry leaves.
-
Sauté on medium heat until the shallots become soft and translucent (about 2-3 minutes). If using onions, cook until they turn golden brown (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the Potatoes and Spices
-
Add 3 medium-sized chopped potatoes to the pan.
-
Season with ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder, 1½ teaspoons chili powder, and 1 teaspoon salt.
-
Stir well to coat the potatoes evenly with the spices.
4. Cook the Potatoes
-
Cover the pan and cook on medium heat for 7-8 minutes. Stir every 2 minutes to prevent burning.
-
Cook until the potatoes are tender and well-cooked. Avoid adding water to maintain the dish’s texture.
5. Garnish and Serve
-
Once the potatoes are cooked, add chopped coriander leaves (if desired) and stir well.
-
Turn off the heat and transfer the dish to a serving bowl.
-
Serve hot with rice, chapati, or as a side dish with your favorite meal.
Tips for the Perfect Potato Mezhukkupuratti
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shallots, garlic, and curry leaves enhance the flavor of the dish.
-
Cut Potatoes Evenly: Chopping the potatoes into small, uniform pieces ensures even cooking.
-
Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the amount of chili powder and red chilies to suit your taste.
-
Avoid Adding Water: Cooking without water helps the potatoes retain their texture and absorb the flavors better.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Potato Mezhukkupuratti is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy potatoes, aromatic spices, and the unique flavor of curry leaves makes it a comforting and satisfying side dish. It’s quick to prepare, uses pantry staples, and pairs well with a variety of main courses.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and delicious potato dish, Potato Mezhukkupuratti is a must-try. With its bold flavors and simple preparation, it’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Until next time, keep experimenting with simple and flavorful recipes to make your meals more enjoyable. Cheers! 🎵
Comments
Post a Comment