Aloo Saagu (Indian Mashed Potatoes)

Difficulty Rating 2 (Prep time required)

4-5 Medium Potatoes
1 big Onion
2 to 3 Tomatoes
1 strand Curry leaves (optional)
½ cup Coriander leaves (optional)
½ tsp Cumin seeds
½ tsp Mustard
pinch Asafetida (hing) (optional)
1tsp Garam masala
½ tsp Turmeric powder
1 tsp Red chilli powder
1 tsp Gram flour (besan) –mixed with water (optional)
1 tbsp Oil

1. Cook potatoes with salt and water; peel and lightly mash them (they should still be a bit chunky).
2. Heat oil in a pan; add mustard, cumin seeds, asafetida, curry leaves and onion and fry till the onions turn transparent.
3. Add tomatoes, turmeric powder, garam masala powder and red chilli powder. Fry till the oil separates.
4. Add the mashed potatoes, salt, and a little water. Boil for 5-6 mins and add the gram flour mixed with water. This helps in binding the saagu.
5. Finally check for salt and garnish with chopped coriander leaves.

This Saagu goes best with Rave Idli (Semolina Idli) and Coconut or Raw chutney. You can also serve it along with Dose and Chapathi too!