Ingredients
For Mattha Aloo | मट्ठा आलू के लिए:
-
मट्ठा (खट्टा दही) | Sour Curd (Mattha) - 1/2 kg
-
आलू | Boiled Potatoes - 6 to 7
-
जीरा | Cumin Seeds - 1/4 teaspoon
-
नमक | Salt - To taste
-
अदरक | Ginger (grated) - A pinch
-
हरी मिर्च | Green Chili (finely chopped) - 1 to 2
-
हरा धनिया | Fresh Coriander Leaves (finely chopped) - 1 teaspoon
-
घी | Ghee - 2 teaspoons
-
हींग | Asafoetida - A pinch
-
लाल मिर्च पाउडर | Red Chili Powder - 1/4 teaspoon
-
हल्दी पाउडर | Turmeric Powder - 1/4 teaspoon
-
धनिया पाउडर | Coriander Powder - 1/4 teaspoon
Directions
Preparing the Potatoes (आलू तैयार करें):
Peel and mash the boiled potatoes lightly, keeping some texture intact.
Cooking the Spices (मसाले भूनें):
Heat ghee in a pan over medium heat.
- Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Stir in asafoetida, grated ginger, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until aromatic.
Combining the Potatoes and Mattha (आलू और मट्ठा डालें):
Add the mashed potatoes to the pan and mix well with the spices.
- Pour in the sour curd (mattha) and stir continuously to prevent curdling.
- Let the mixture come to a gentle boil.
- Add salt as per taste and let it simmer on low heat for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Garnishing and Serving (सजावट और परोसें):
Turn off the flame and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with roti, paratha, or steamed rice for a delicious and comforting meal.
Recipe Note
Tips for Perfect Mattha Aloo
-
Use Fresh Mattha: Ensure the curd is sour but not overly fermented for the best taste.
-
Stir Continuously: While adding curd, stir well to prevent it from splitting.
-
Adjust Consistency: Add a little water if you prefer a thinner gravy.
-
Enhance Flavor: A pinch of roasted cumin powder can add extra depth to the dish.
Cultural Significance
Mattha Aloo is a rustic and traditional dish, often prepared in rural Indian kitchens, where curd-based gravies are preferred for their cooling and digestive properties. It is especially popular in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, where mattha (thin buttermilk) is a staple in daily meals. This simple yet satisfying dish showcases how minimal ingredients can create a flavorful and wholesome meal, deeply rooted in Indian culinary heritage.
