Aloo Paratha : how to prepare this popular Indian dish

 

Aloo Paratha is a popular North Indian stuffed flatbread made with spiced mashed potatoes. Here's a step-by-step recipe to prepare Aloo Paratha:

**Ingredients:**

For the Dough:

- 2 cups whole wheat flour (atta)

- Water, as needed

- A pinch of salt

For the Potato Filling:

- 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, boiled, peeled, and mashed

- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)

- 1-2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)

- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala

- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

- Salt to taste

- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (optional)

- Ghee or oil for cooking

**Instructions:**

**For the Potato Filling:**

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, chopped onion, green chilies, cumin seeds, red chili powder, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. You can also add fresh coriander leaves for added flavor.

2. Mix all the ingredients well to form a uniform filling. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Set the potato filling aside.

**For the Dough:**

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and a pinch of salt.

4. Gradually add water and knead the dough until it's smooth and pliable. The dough should not be too soft or too firm. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 20-30 minutes.

**Assembling and Cooking Aloo Paratha:**

5. Divide the dough into equal-sized portions and roll them into balls.

6. Take one dough ball and roll it out into a small circle (about 4-5 inches in diameter) using a rolling pin and a little dry flour to prevent sticking.

7. Place a portion of the potato filling (about 2-3 tablespoons) in the center of the rolled-out dough circle.

8. Fold the edges of the dough over the potato filling, covering it completely. You should have a stuffed ball of dough.

9. Gently flatten this stuffed ball with your hands.

10. Roll out the stuffed ball into a paratha, making sure the potato filling spreads evenly and the paratha is not too thick.

11. Heat a griddle (tava) or a non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the rolled-out Aloo Paratha on it.

12. Cook one side until you see bubbles forming, then flip it over.

13. Spread a little ghee or oil on the cooked side and flip it again. Spread ghee or oil on the other side as well.

14. Press the edges of the paratha with a spatula to ensure it cooks evenly and becomes crisp and golden brown.

15. Cook until both sides are well-cooked and have golden brown spots.

16. Repeat the process for the remaining dough balls and potato filling.

17. Serve the Aloo Parathas hot with yogurt, pickle, or a side of your choice.

Aloo Paratha is a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Enjoy!