Diced Potatoes with Turmeric and Cumin

Diced Potatoes with Turmeric and Cumin Recipe - Authentic Sri Lankan Vegetarian Dish

Region / culture: Sri Lanka | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15-20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Diced Potatoes with Turmeric and Cumin is a flavorful and aromatic dish that is perfect as a side dish or even as a main course. The combination of spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander adds a depth of flavor to the humble potato, making it a dish that is sure to impress.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Indian cooking, where spices are used to enhance the flavors of simple ingredients like potatoes. Turmeric and cumin are commonly used in Indian cuisine for their health benefits and delicious taste. This dish is a modern twist on a classic recipe, perfect for those looking to add some spice to their meals.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) new potatoes, scrubbed
6 tbsp vegetable oil
0.13 tsp asafetida (optional)
0.5 tsp whole black mustard seeds
0.5 tsp whole cumin seeds
0.13 tsp ground turmeric
0.5 tsp ground coriander seeds
0.5 tsp ground cumin seeds
0.25 tsp cayenne
0.75 tsp salt

How to prepare

Cut the potatoes into 0.5-inch dice.
Heat the oil in a wok or frying pan over medium heat.
When the oil is hot, add the asafetida, followed by the mustard seeds and cumin seeds after a second.
Add the diced potatoes and stir once or twice.
Sprinkle in the turmeric.
Continue to stir occasionally and cook for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are lightly browned and almost cooked.
Sprinkle in the ground coriander, ground cumin, cayenne, and salt.
Stir and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and texture.
Sprinkle with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
For a creamier dish, stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut milk.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to dice the potatoes evenly to ensure even cooking.

- Be careful when adding the spices to the hot oil, as they can burn easily.

- Stir the potatoes occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pan.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Diced Potatoes with Turmeric and Cumin as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It also pairs well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Use a wok or frying pan to cook the potatoes evenly and quickly.

- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular potatoes if new potatoes are not available.

- Substitute ground turmeric for fresh turmeric root if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the diced potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes for a pop of color. - Serve in a decorative bowl or plate for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair with a refreshing cucumber raita or mint chutney for a cooling contrast to the spices.

- Serve with warm naan bread or rice for a complete Indian-inspired meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

230

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 28g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 14g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 3g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 24mg

- Iron: 1mg

- Potassium: 620mg

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and vegan-friendly.

Summary

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Summary

Diced Potatoes with Turmeric and Cumin is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a blend of aromatic spices and tender potatoes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it as a side dish or as a main course for a satisfying meal that is both comforting and satisfying.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a strong memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Diced Potatoes with Turmeric and Cumin. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in India. I remember watching in awe as my mother prepared this dish, the vibrant colors and aromatic spices filling the air.

My mother learned this recipe from her own mother, who in turn learned it from her mother before her. It was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations, each adding their own twist and secret ingredient to make it truly their own.

As I watched my mother peel and dice the potatoes, the smell of the turmeric and cumin wafted through the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. I could see the love and care she put into each step of the process, a skill that she had honed over many years of practice.

I remember asking her why she added turmeric and cumin to the potatoes, and she explained to me that these spices not only added flavor but also had numerous health benefits. Turmeric, she said, was known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while cumin was good for digestion. It was a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a simple vegetable dish.

After the potatoes were diced and the spices added, my mother would fry them in a pan until they were golden brown and crispy on the outside, yet soft and fluffy on the inside. The smell that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When the dish was finally ready, my mother served it with a side of fresh yogurt and some pickles, a traditional accompaniment to Indian meals. I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a world of flavors and textures that I had never experienced before. The earthy taste of the turmeric combined with the warmth of the cumin created a harmonious blend that danced on my taste buds.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire, something that I would pass down to my own children and grandchildren one day. I made it a point to learn every step, every ingredient, and every technique that went into making this dish just right.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its delicious flavor and comforting warmth.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that first time I saw my mother make Diced Potatoes with Turmeric and Cumin, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and nostalgia. This recipe has not only nourished my body but also my soul, connecting me to my heritage and the generations of women who came before me.

I am proud to carry on this tradition, to keep the flame alive and pass it on to the next generation. And as I take a bite of these perfectly spiced potatoes, I am reminded of the love and care that went into creating this dish, a reminder of the strength and resilience of the women who came before me.