Aloo Kurma is a beloved vegetarian curry from South India that beautifully combines the humble potato with a rich, aromatic blend of spices and creamy coconut. This dish is perfect for those seeking a comforting yet flavorful meal that can be easily enjoyed with rice, roti, or parathas.
The word “Kurma” (or “Korma”) refers to a curry made with a blend of spices and coconut or yogurt, resulting in a mildly spiced but deeply satisfying gravy. Aloo Kurma captures the essence of Indian home cooking – simple ingredients elevated by traditional techniques and fragrant seasonings.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to Indian cuisine, this aloo kurma recipe will guide you through creating a dish that is vibrant in color, rich in taste, and perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s entirely vegetarian and can be adapted to suit your dietary preferences.
Let’s dive into the details of making this classic Indian vegetable recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Aloo Kurma is a crowd-pleaser because it balances creamy coconut flavors with a subtle spice kick, making it suitable for all palates. The potatoes soak up the luscious gravy, which is infused with traditional Indian spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves, and finished with a hint of fresh coriander.
This recipe is also:
- Easy to prepare — perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.
- Vegetarian and vegan-friendly — no dairy needed.
- Highly customizable — add peas, carrots, or other vegetables to make it your own.
- Nutrient-rich — packed with vitamins from fresh ingredients and fiber from potatoes.
With this recipe, you get the authentic taste of Indian cuisine with minimal fuss!
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup grated coconut (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or coconut oil)
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 3-4 whole cloves
- 2 green cardamom pods
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 1/4 cup roasted cashews
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water (adjust as needed)
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pan or kadai
- Blender or food processor
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Bowl for soaking cashews (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the coconut paste: In a blender, combine the grated coconut, roasted cashews, and about 1/4 cup of water. Blend into a smooth paste and set aside.
- Cook the potatoes: Boil or steam the cubed potatoes until just tender but not mushy. Drain and keep aside.
- Heat the oil: In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cumin seeds. When they begin to splutter, add the whole cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon stick.
- Sauté onions and chilies: Add the chopped onions and green chilies. Cook until the onions turn golden brown, stirring occasionally.
- Add ginger-garlic paste: Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 2 minutes until the raw smell dissipates.
- Spice it up: Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook the spices for about 1 minute to release their aroma.
- Add the coconut paste: Pour the prepared coconut-cashew paste into the pan. Stir continuously and cook for 3-4 minutes until the oil separates slightly from the mixture.
- Add water and simmer: Add 3/4 cup water and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes to thicken the gravy.
- Combine potatoes: Gently fold in the boiled potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the potatoes to absorb the flavors.
- Finish with garam masala: Sprinkle garam masala over the curry and mix gently. Cook for another minute and turn off the heat.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice, chapati, or parathas.
Tips & Variations
For an even richer flavor, roast the spices lightly before adding them to the oil.
Add mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, or beans along with the potatoes for a more colorful and nutritious meal.
Use coconut milk instead of water for a creamier texture and enhanced coconut flavor.
If you prefer milder heat, reduce or omit the green chilies.
Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 220 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 35 g |
Protein | 4 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sodium | 350 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Aloo Kurma pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian staples. Serve it alongside fluffy basmati rice or fragrant jeera rice for a classic meal.
It also complements Indian breads like chapati, paratha, or naan, perfect for scooping up the creamy gravy.
For a complete meal, consider pairing your aloo kurma with a cooling cucumber raita or a tangy mango pickle. To explore more Indian dishes that work great with this curry, check out our Bread And Gravy Recipe or try the Bok Choy Indian Recipe for some delightful vegetable sides.
Conclusion
Aloo Kurma is an exquisite example of Indian vegetarian cooking that combines simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor and comfort. Its creamy texture, aromatic spices, and the satisfying bite of potatoes make it a favorite for many households across India.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also flexible enough to accommodate various dietary preferences and ingredient availability.
Whether you’re cooking for family, impressing guests, or simply craving a wholesome Indian meal, aloo kurma is a fantastic choice. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the spices and vegetables to create your personalized version.
For more delicious and diverse recipes, explore our Breakfast Wellington Recipe or the hearty Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your flavorful journey into Indian cuisine!
📖 Recipe Card: Aloo Kurma
Description: Aloo Kurma is a flavorful South Indian potato curry cooked in a rich, spiced coconut-based gravy. This vegetarian dish pairs well with rice or roti for a hearty meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup grated coconut
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit
- 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tsp fennel seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp garam masala
- 2 tbsp oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin and fennel seeds until they splutter.
- Add chopped onions and green chilies; sauté until golden brown.
- Mix in ginger-garlic paste and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add turmeric, coriander powder, and garam masala; stir well.
- Grind grated coconut with a little water to form a smooth paste.
- Add the coconut paste to the pan and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add cubed potatoes and salt; mix well.
- Pour water, cover, and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 10 g | Carbs: 30 g
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