Bombay Potato Recipe: A Delicious Indian-Inspired Side Dish

Bombay potatoes, or Bombay aloo, is a popular Indian-inspired dish known for its spicy, flavorful, and aromatic appeal. Perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main, Bombay potatoes combine tender potatoes with a blend of fragrant spices to create a crowd-pleasing meal. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through making authentic and delicious Bombay potatoes at home.

What Are Bombay Potatoes?

Bombay potatoes are a traditional Indian side dish made with boiled or roasted potatoes coated in a spicy tomato-based sauce. The dish is flavored with a blend of spices such as cumin, turmeric, mustard seeds, and garam masala, giving it a bold and aromatic profile. Bombay potatoes are versatile, easy to make, and pair perfectly with a variety of Indian dishes.

Ingredients for Bombay Potatoes

To make Bombay potatoes, you’ll need:

For the Potatoes:

500g (1 lb) baby or waxy potatoes
Salt, to taste

For the Sauce:

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp mustard seeds
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 200g canned tomatoes)
1 tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp garam masala
1 tsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
½ tsp ground coriander
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt, to taste

Optional Garnish:

Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Lemon wedges

How to Make Bombay Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Boil the Potatoes:
- Wash and boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Drain and let them cool slightly. Peel if desired and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Optional Roasting:
- For a crispier texture, roast the boiled potatoes in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Heat the Oil:
- In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Cook the Spices:
- Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Cook until they begin to pop.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for another 2 minutes.
Add the Tomatoes:
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down into a thick sauce, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Potatoes

Incorporate Spices:
- Stir in turmeric, garam masala, chili powder, coriander, and ground cumin. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release the flavors.
Coat the Potatoes:
- Add the boiled (or roasted) potatoes to the pan and toss to coat them evenly in the sauce.
Season:
- Add salt to taste and cook for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top and serve with a wedge of lemon for added freshness.

Tips for the Perfect Bombay Potatoes

Choose the Right Potatoes:
- Waxy potatoes hold their shape well and work best for this recipe.
Adjust the Spice Level:
- For a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili powder or skip it entirely.
Make It Creamier:
- Add a splash of coconut milk or yogurt for a creamy variation.
Crispier Texture:
- Roast the potatoes after boiling for extra crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

Bombay potatoes are a versatile dish that pairs well with:

Curries:
- Serve alongside chicken tikka masala, butter chicken, or dal makhani.
Flatbreads:
- Pair with naan, chapati, or paratha for a hearty meal.
Rice:
- Serve over steamed basmati rice or as part of a biryani platter.
Vegetarian Feast:
- Combine with other vegetable dishes like saag paneer or aloo gobi for a complete vegetarian meal.

FAQs About Bombay Potatoes

Can I make Bombay potatoes in advance?
- Yes, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
- Yes, sweet potatoes add a unique flavor and work well with the spices.
What if I don’t have fresh tomatoes?
- Canned tomatoes or tomato puree can be used as a substitute.
Can I make Bombay potatoes vegan?
- The recipe is naturally vegan if you use vegetable oil.
How do I make the dish less spicy?
- Reduce or omit the chili powder and adjust other spices to taste.
Can I freeze Bombay potatoes?
- While freezing may affect the texture of the potatoes, it’s possible to freeze the dish for up to 2 months.
What’s the best oil to use?
- Vegetable oil, sunflower oil, or ghee are ideal choices.
How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming mushy?
- Avoid overcooking the potatoes during boiling and handle them gently when mixing.

Conclusion

Bombay potatoes are a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings the vibrant spices of India to your table. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on their own, they’re sure to impress family and friends. Follow this recipe to create a delicious plate of Bombay potatoes that’s perfect for any occasion.