Aloo Posto is a classic Bengali dish that brings together the simplicity of potatoes with the nutty flavor of poppy seeds. This comforting, easy-to-make dish is loved for its rich texture and subtle flavors. Perfect for both lunch and dinner, Aloo Posto pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and is an excellent option for those seeking a light yet flavorful meal.

For this recipe, we’ll use Urban Mills Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil, which enhances the dish's authentic taste with its earthy aroma and flavor.

Ingredients for Aloo Posto

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the ingredients required for this mouth-watering Bengali recipe.

Main Ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized potatoes (cut into cubes)

• 3 tablespoons poppy seeds (posto)

• 2 green chilies (adjust to taste)

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• Salt to taste

• 2 tablespoons Urban Mills Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil

Tempering:

• ½ teaspoon nigella seeds (kalonji)

• 1 dried red chili

How to Make Aloo Posto
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Aloo Posto:

Step 1: Soak and Grind the Poppy Seeds

1. Soak the poppy seeds in warm water for about 30 minutes. This helps soften them for easy grinding.

2. After soaking, grind the poppy seeds along with 2 green chilies to make a smooth paste. You can add a little water if required.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and cube the potatoes. Rinse them thoroughly.

2. In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat Urban Mills Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil until it starts to smoke lightly, then reduce the flame.

Step 3: Tempering

1. Add nigella seeds (kalonji) and dried red chili to the hot oil. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.

2. Now, add the cubed potatoes and sauté them in the mustard oil for 5-7 minutes. Ensure they are coated with the oil and begin to turn golden.

Step 4: Add Spices and Poppy Seed Paste

1. Sprinkle turmeric powder over the potatoes and stir well.

2. Add the poppy seed paste and cook on medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure the mixture doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.

3. Add salt to taste and a little water (about ½ cup) to form a thick gravy.

Step 5: Simmer and Serve

1. Cover the pan and let the potatoes cook in the posto paste for about 10 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally and ensure the water doesn’t dry out too quickly.

2. Once the potatoes are fully cooked and the posto paste clings to them beautifully, turn off the heat.

Step 6: Final Touch

For added richness, drizzle a small amount of Urban Mills Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil over the dish before serving. This enhances the authentic flavor of Aloo Posto.

Tips for the Perfect Aloo Posto

1. Choosing the Right Potatoes

Opt for starchy potatoes like Indian varieties of aloo that hold their shape well after cooking.

2. Poppy Seeds Paste

The key to making a good Aloo Posto is the consistency of the poppy seeds paste. Ensure it's smooth enough to blend well with the potatoes.

3. Mustard Oil Matters

The use of Urban Mills Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil is crucial as it imparts a deep, earthy flavor that traditional mustard oils are known for. This oil also adds a pungent aroma, elevating the dish to another level of authenticity.

Serving Suggestions for Aloo Posto
Aloo Posto is best served with steamed rice or roti. For a more complete Bengali meal, pair it with dal (lentils) or a side of baingan bharta (mashed brinjal) to enjoy the full spectrum of Bengali flavors.

Health Benefits of Poppy Seeds
Did you know that poppy seeds (posto) are a powerhouse of nutrition? They are rich in dietary fiber, calcium, and magnesium, making Aloo Posto not only delicious but also nutritious.

Poppy seeds help improve digestion due to their high fiber content.

The calcium and magnesium in poppy seeds strengthen bones and support overall health.

Conclusion

Aloo Posto is a simple yet soulful dish that embodies the essence of Bengali cuisine. The combination of potatoes and the nutty flavor of poppy seeds, enhanced by the pungent richness of Urban Mills Kachi Ghani Mustard Oil, makes it a must-try for anyone who loves traditional Indian recipes. Whether you're hosting a dinner or just looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Enjoy the flavors of Bengal with this easy-to-make Aloo Posto recipe!