Spiced Potatoes In Tamarind Sauce

Spiced Potatoes In Tamarind Sauce Recipe - Vegetarian Pakistani Dish

Region / culture: Pakistan | Servings: - 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Spiced Potatoes in Tamarind Sauce is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the tangy taste of tamarind with a blend of spices to create a delicious and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors and exotic ingredients.

History

This recipe has its origins in Indian cuisine, where tamarind is commonly used to add a sour and tangy flavor to dishes. The combination of spices used in this recipe reflects the traditional flavors of Indian cooking, making it a popular choice for those looking to explore new and exciting flavors.

Ingredients

1.5 tbsp tamarind paste
2 cups water
8 small boiling potatoes
0.25 cup corn oil
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 tsp minced fresh ginger
4 garlic cloves, minced
0.5 tsp dried red pepper flakes
0.5 tsp ground turmeric
0.5 tsp ground cardamom
0.5 tsp ground fennel
0.5 tsp cinnamon
0.25 tsp freshly ground pepper
salt

How to prepare

Dissolve tamarind paste in 1 cup of water. Let it stand for 30 minutes, then strain.
Boil the potatoes until they are just tender. Let them cool completely, then peel them. Using a wooden skewer, pierce each potato in 4 places.
Heat oil in a heavy large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion and cook until it becomes crisp and lightly browned, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes. Remove it from the skillet.
Add the potatoes and brown them well on all sides. Remove them from the skillet and pour off all but 1 tbsp of oil.
Add ginger and garlic to the skillet and stir for 1 minute. Stir in pepper flakes and turmeric, then blend in 2 tbsp of water.
Mix in the onion. Add the potatoes, tamarind liquid, and the remaining 14 tbsp of water.
Stir in cardamom, fennel, cinnamon, and pepper.
Cover and simmer until the sauce has slightly thickened, about 15 minutes. Season with salt.

Variations

Add diced vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for added texture and flavor.
Substitute the potatoes with sweet potatoes for a different twist on this dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to let the tamarind paste stand for at least 30 minutes to fully dissolve and infuse its flavor into the dish.

- Boiling the potatoes until just tender ensures that they will hold their shape when cooked in the sauce.

- Browning the potatoes well on all sides adds a delicious crispy texture to the dish.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Spiced Potatoes in Tamarind Sauce with steamed rice or naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the potatoes in the tamarind sauce allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and flavorful dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If tamarind paste is not available, you can use lemon juice as a substitute for a similar tangy flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Spiced Potatoes in Tamarind Sauce with fresh cilantro leaves or a dollop of yogurt for a colorful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a refreshing cucumber raita or a side of pickled vegetables to balance out the flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

250

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 32g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 14g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 3g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 15% DV

- Iron: 8% DV

- Calcium: 2% DV

- Potassium: 10% DV

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

This dish is a good source of carbohydrates and healthy fats, with a moderate amount of protein. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious and balanced meal option.

Summary

Spiced Potatoes in Tamarind Sauce is a delicious and aromatic dish that combines the tangy flavor of tamarind with a blend of spices to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. With its rich and complex flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite among those who enjoy bold and exotic cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her small village in India. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma - a mix of tangy tamarind and fragrant spices. Maria was busy chopping fresh herbs and vegetables, and I couldn't help but ask her what she was making.

She smiled and told me she was making Spiced Potatoes in Tamarind Sauce, a traditional dish that her grandmother had taught her how to make. I watched in awe as she effortlessly combined the potatoes with the tamarind paste and a blend of spices, creating a dish that was both savory and tangy.

I asked Maria if she could show me how to make it, and she happily agreed. As we cooked together, she shared the story of how her grandmother had passed down the recipe to her, just as her grandmother had learned it from her own mother.

According to Maria, the key to making the perfect Spiced Potatoes in Tamarind Sauce was to use fresh ingredients and to let the spices simmer and meld together slowly. The tamarind paste added a unique sweetness and tanginess to the dish, while the spices - cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder - gave it a rich and flavorful depth.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Maria told me that this dish was a staple in their household, especially during special occasions and festivals. It was a dish that brought together friends and family, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

After that day, I couldn't stop thinking about the Spiced Potatoes in Tamarind Sauce. I knew I had to recreate it in my own kitchen. I collected the ingredients - fresh potatoes, tamarind paste, and an array of spices - and set to work.

As I cooked, I could almost hear Maria's voice guiding me through the recipe. I added a pinch of this and a dash of that, letting the flavors meld together in the pot. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, bringing back memories of that summer day in India.

When I finally sat down to taste my creation, I was transported back to Maria's kitchen. The flavors were just as I remembered - savory, tangy, and bursting with spices. I felt a sense of accomplishment knowing that I had successfully recreated a dish that held so much meaning for my friend and her family.

Since that day, Spiced Potatoes in Tamarind Sauce has become a favorite in my household as well. I love sharing this recipe with my own friends and family, passing down the tradition that Maria had shared with me.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am grateful for the friendships and experiences that have enriched my life. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with others, to share stories and create lasting memories.

And so, as I prepare to make Spiced Potatoes in Tamarind Sauce once again, I am filled with a sense of joy and gratitude. This dish may have originated in a small village in India, but it has found a home in my heart and my kitchen, a testament to the power of food to bring people together.