Introduction:

 

Let me take you on a journey to the heart of Indian cuisine with a dish that holds a special place in my culinary adventures: Aloo Kathal Ki Sabji. The first time I encountered this dish was during a family gathering in the vibrant streets of Lucknow. As I savored the blend of tender jackfruit and hearty potatoes infused with aromatic spices, I was transported to a realm of gastronomic delight. Since then, this flavorful dish has been a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, reminding me of the rich tapestry of flavors that Indian cuisine has to offer.

 

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Recipe of Aloo Aur Kathal Ki Sabji
 

Portion Servings: 6-7 servings

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

 

 

Ingredients:

 

• 3 Potatoes, peeled and diced
• 500 g Kathal (Jackfruit), diced
• Oil for deep frying
• 2 tbsp Mustard Oil
• 4 Bay Leaves
• 1 inch Cinnamon Stick
• 1 Black Cardamom
• 10-12 Black Peppercorns
• 5-6 Cloves
• 3 medium-sized Onions, chopped
• 2 tbsp Garlic, chopped
• 1 tbsp Ginger, chopped
• 1 tbsp Green Chilli, chopped
• 1 tbsp Ginger & Garlic Paste
• 1 tsp Salt
• ½ tsp Turmeric Powder
• 2 tsp Coriander Powder
• 1 tsp Red Chilli Powder
• 1 tsp Jeera (Cumin) Powder
• ½ tbsp Chopped Coriander Stems
• 2 medium-sized Tomatoes, chopped
• Water, as required
• 1 tbsp Meat Masala
• 1 tbsp Kasoori Methi (Dried Fenugreek Leaves)
• 1 tbsp Chopped Coriander Leaves

 

 

Method:

 

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash and peel the potatoes, then dice them into even pieces.
2. Cut the jackfruit into small dice.
3. Heat oil in a deep pan for frying.

Step 2: Deep Fry the Jackfruit

1. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the diced jackfruit to the pan.
2. Fry until golden brown and crisp.
3. Remove the fried jackfruit from the oil and drain excess oil on paper towels. Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Pressure Cooker

1. Heat mustard oil in a pressure cooker.
2. Add bay leaves, cinnamon, cloves, black peppercorns, and black cardamom. Let them crackle.

Step 4: Saute the Aromatics

1. Add chopped onions to the pressure cooker and sauté until golden brown.
2. Add chopped garlic and cook until the raw smell disappears.
3. Stir in chopped ginger and green chilli, and sauté for another minute.

Step 5: Add Spices and Flavours

1. Incorporate ginger & garlic paste and sauté for a minute.
2. Add salt, red chilli powder, turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and chopped coriander stems.
3. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until softened.

Step 6: Add Potatoes and Jackfruit

1. Pour water into the pressure cooker and mix well.
2. Add diced potatoes and sauté for 4-5 minutes.
3. Add fried jackfruit dice and mix well.

Step 7: Season and Pressure Cook

1. Sprinkle meat masala and adjust the consistency with water.
2. Close the pressure cooker and cook for 2-3 whistles.

Step 8: Final Touches

1. Once pressure is released naturally, open the lid.
2. Stir in kasuri methi and chopped coriander leaves.
3. Cook for another minute to thicken the curry.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
2. Serve hot with rice or roti.

 

Enjoy the delicious Aloo Aur Kathal Ki Sabji!

 

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About the Recipe:

 

Aloo Kathal Ki Sabji, or Jackfruit and Potato Curry, is a traditional North Indian dish bursting with robust flavors and textures. Jackfruit, known for its meaty texture, pairs perfectly with potatoes to create a dish that's both hearty and satisfying. Simmered in a fragrant blend of spices, this curry is a celebration of the diverse flavors of Indian cuisine.

 

 

Cooking Tips:

 

1. Choose ripe jackfruit: Opt for ripe jackfruit with a sweet aroma and soft texture for the best flavor.
2. Prep the jackfruit: Remove the seeds and core of the jackfruit before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Parboil the potatoes: Partially boil the potatoes before adding them to the curry to ensure even cooking.
4. Balance the spices: Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences for a perfectly seasoned dish.
5. Simmer gently: Allow the curry to simmer gently to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

 

 

Pairing Guide:

 

Aloo Kathal Ki Sabji pairs wonderfully with fluffy basmati rice or piping hot rotis. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of yogurt raita and tangy pickle to complement the rich flavors of the curry.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions about Aloo Kathal Ki Sabji:

 

1. What is jackfruit?
   • Jackfruit is a tropical fruit known for its large size and sweet flavor. In savory dishes like Aloo Kathal Ki Sabji, it provides a unique texture similar to meat.
2. Can I use canned jackfruit?
   • Yes, canned jackfruit can be used as a convenient alternative, but fresh jackfruit is preferred for the best taste and texture.
3. Is Aloo Kathal Ki Sabji vegan?
   • Yes, this dish is vegan as it contains no animal products.
4. How long does it take to cook jackfruit?
   • Fresh jackfruit may take around 20-30 minutes to cook until tender, while canned jackfruit may require less time.
5. Can I freeze Aloo Kathal Ki Sabji?
   • Yes, you can freeze the curry in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
6. What other vegetables can I add to this curry?
   • You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.
7. Is Aloo Kathal Ki Sabji spicy?
   • The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to personal preference by varying the amount of chili powder or green chilies used.
8. Can I make it ahead of time?
   • Yes, Aloo Kathal Ki Sabji tastes even better when the flavors have had time to develop. Make it ahead and reheat before serving.
9. Is jackfruit healthy?
   • Yes, jackfruit is low in calories and packed with nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
10. What does Aloo Kathal Ki Sabji taste like?
    • It has a rich and savory flavor with a hint of sweetness from the jackfruit, balanced with aromatic Indian spices.

 

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