Introduction

 

Namaste! I am Chef Ajay Chopra, and I welcome you all to my YouTube channel. One of my all-time favorite comfort foods is Dum Aloo, especially when it’s made in a dhaba style. I remember the first time I had it at a roadside dhaba during a family trip. The smoky flavor of the roasted potatoes combined with the rich, spicy gravy was unforgettable. Ever since, I’ve been on a quest to recreate that same magic at home.

Today, I’m excited to share with you my own version of Dhaba Style Dum Aloo. This recipe brings together the essence of those roadside dhabas with a touch of home-cooked warmth. Let’s dive in and make this delightful dish that promises to transport you straight to the bustling dhabas of India!

 

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Ingredients of Dum Aloo

 

• 500g baby potatoes

• 3 tbsp mustard oil

• 2 onions, chopped

• 4 tomatoes, pureed

• 2 tbsp roasted besan (gram flour)

• 1/2 cup curd

• 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste

• 1 tbsp garam masala

• 1 tbsp coriander powder

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• 1 tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp red chili powder

• 1 tsp kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)

• 1 tbsp fresh coriander, chopped

• Salt to taste

• Water as required

 

 

Instructions of Dum Aloo

 

Step 1: Boil and Roast Potatoes

Boil the Potatoes: Boil the baby potatoes until they are just tender. Do not overcook them. Peel and set aside.

Roast the Potatoes: Heat 3 tbsp of mustard oil in a wok. Add the boiled potatoes and roast them until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

 

Step 2: Prepare the Masala

Prepare the Masala Paste: In the same wok, add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Add Ginger-Garlic Paste: Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute.

Add Spices: Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Mix well and sauté for another minute.

 

Step 3: Add Tomato Puree

Add Tomato Puree: Add the tomato puree to the masala mixture. Cook on medium flame until the oil starts to separate from the masala.

 

Step 4: Incorporate Curd and Besan

Add Curd and Besan: Lower the flame and add the curd to the mixture. Stir continuously to prevent curdling. Add roasted besan to the mixture and cook until it blends well with the masala.

 

Step 5: Combine Potatoes with Masala

Add Roasted Potatoes: Add the roasted potatoes to the masala and mix well. Ensure that the potatoes are well-coated with the masala.

 

Step 6: Simmer the Gravy

Simmer the Gravy: Add water as required to achieve the desired consistency. Let it simmer on low flame for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

 

Step 7: Final Touches

Add Kasuri Methi and Fresh Coriander: Crush the kasuri methi between your palms and sprinkle it over the dum aloo. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.

 

Step 8: Serve

Serve Hot: Serve the Dum Aloo hot with roti, paratha, naan, or rice.

 

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About the Recipe 

 

Dum Aloo is a quintessential North Indian dish that has won hearts across the country. In this recipe, we start with boiling and roasting potatoes to achieve a perfect texture. The marination, made with roasted besan and curd, ensures that the flavors seep deep into the potatoes. The rich gravy, prepared with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices, complements the roasted potatoes beautifully. The addition of kasuri methi, garam masala, and coriander at the end elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Cooking Dum Aloo at home gives you the advantage of adjusting the spice levels and making it just the way you like it. Whether served with roti, paratha, naan, or even rice, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The unique roasted taste and the creamy, tangy gravy make it an irresistible delight.

 

 

Cooking Tips

 

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh tomatoes, onions, and spices for the best flavor.

2. Boil Potatoes Perfectly: Ensure the potatoes are boiled just right – not too soft, so they hold their shape while roasting.

3. Roast Evenly: Roast the potatoes on a medium flame to get that perfect crispy texture.

4. Marination Time: Allow the potatoes to marinate for at least 15-20 minutes for the flavors to seep in.

5. Curd Addition: When adding curd to the gravy, make sure the flame is low to prevent curdling.

 

 

Pairing Guide

 

1. With Bread: Serve Dum Aloo with tandoori roti, naan, or laccha paratha for a traditional touch.

2. With Rice: Pair it with steamed basmati rice or jeera rice for a complete meal.

3. With Side Dishes: Add a side of fresh salad or raita to balance the flavors.

4. With Beverages: A glass of chilled lassi or buttermilk complements the spicy flavors of Dum Aloo perfectly.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions about Dum Aloo

 

1. What is Dum Aloo?

Dum Aloo is a popular North Indian dish made with potatoes cooked in a spicy, creamy gravy.

2. Can I use any type of potatoes for Dum Aloo?

Yes, you can use any variety of potatoes, but baby potatoes are traditionally preferred for their size and texture.

3. How do I prevent curd from curdling in the gravy?

Add the curd on a low flame and keep stirring continuously to prevent it from curdling.

4. Can Dum Aloo be made without onions and garlic?

Yes, you can make a Jain version of Dum Aloo by omitting onions and garlic and adjusting the spices.

5. What can I use instead of mustard oil?

You can use any cooking oil, but mustard oil gives an authentic dhaba-style flavor.

6. Is Dum Aloo a vegan dish?

Traditional Dum Aloo contains curd, making it non-vegan. However, you can substitute curd with a vegan alternative like cashew yogurt.

7. Can I prepare Dum Aloo in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the gravy and potatoes separately in advance and combine them before serving.

8. How spicy is Dum Aloo?

The spice level can be adjusted to your preference by modifying the amount of chili used.

9. What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

10. Can I freeze Dum Aloo?

Yes, you can freeze Dum Aloo. However, the texture of potatoes might change slightly upon thawing and reheating.

Enjoy making and savoring this delicious Dhaba Style Dum Aloo at home, and don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you try!

 

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