Bombay Potatoes: Spiced Indian-Style Potatoes Bursting with Flavour
- Steve Holloway
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
Introduction
Bring a burst of Indian flavour to your table with this easy and irresistible Bombay Potatoes recipe! Tender potatoes are tossed in a vibrant blend of aromatic spices—think cumin, turmeric, and garam masala—then sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and fresh cilantro for a dish that’s both comforting and full of zing. Whether you enjoy them as a satisfying side or a stand-alone snack, these Bombay Potatoes offer the perfect balance of heat, tang, and earthy goodness, making them a surefire crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Cuisine -Indian - Side Dish- Serves 2
Bombay potatoes, also known as "Aloo Bombay" or "Bombay-style potatoes," have their roots in Indian cuisine, particularly from the culinary traditions of Mumbai (formerly Bombay), a bustling port city that has historically been a melting pot of diverse cultures and flavours. This dish is a tasty, spicy potato curry that reflects the influence of Mughlai, Gujarati, and other regional Indian cooking styles. It became popular among Indian communities and was adapted for both home cooking and street food, often served as a side dish or snack. Over time, Bombay potatoes have gained international popularity, especially in the UK, where Indian cuisine has a significant presence, and are now a common feature in Indian restaurants worldwide.There are a few variations for this recipe scrubbed new potatoes (with their skin on) is a great way to do this. larger older potatoes can be peeled, cubed, and boiled, is a very easy way. And lastly peeled, cubed, par- boiled then fried is a more traditional method. I have even used up leftover Sunday roast potatoes for this, it's really up to you.
Cooking times,
For this Bombay Potatoes recipe, the Prep time is approximately 15 minutes (peeling, chopping, and par-boiling the potatoes, plus prepping the vegetables). The cooking time is about 30 minutes (deep-frying the potatoes, sautéing the vegetables, and combining everything). So, in total, you’ll need around 45 minutes from start to finish.
Recipe Difficulty Level: Beginner-Friendly
This Bombay Potatoes recipe is simple to follow and perfect for beginners, requiring only basic cooking techniques like par-boiling, frying, and sautéing. With straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients, even novice cooks can achieve delicious, authentic results.
Special Equipment: None
No special equipment is needed for this recipe—just basic kitchen tools like a pot, frying pan, and knife will do!
Heat Level: Mild - Medium
This recipe has a gentle warmth from the chili powder and spices, making it mild to medium in heat—perfect for most palates, but easily adjustable if you prefer more or less spice.
Nutrition values for Bombay Potatoes
Bombay potatoes typically contain around 150-200 calories per serving (about 1 cup), with approximately 7-10 grams of fat, mainly from cooking oil and spices. They are also a good source of carbohydrates, providing about 20-30 grams per serving, and contain dietary fiber, vitamins (like vitamin C and some B vitamins), and minerals such as potassium. The exact nutritional content can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used, especially the amount of oil and additional toppings like cilantro or yogurt.
A little History
Bombay Potatoes, also known as "Bombay Aloo," are a popular Indian dish that originated in the bustling city of Mumbai (formerly Bombay). This wonderful recipe reflects the vibrant street food culture of the city, where potatoes are commonly cooked with an array of spices to create bold, aromatic flavours. Traditionally served as a side dish or snack, Bombay Potatoes have become a staple in Indian households and restaurants around the world, loved for their satisfying texture and zesty, comforting taste.
Easy Recipe for Bombay Potatoes
Ingredients
½ kg of new potatoes ( I usually use Cyprus potatoes) peeled and cubed
Cooking oil for deep-frying
1 large onion medium sliced
1 yellow bell pepper cut into chunks
2 large tomatoes sliced
2 tablespoons of coconut oil or ghee
½ teaspoon of ground Turmeric
½ teaspoon of chilli powder
½ teaspoon of cumin seeds
½ teaspoon of mustard seeds
6 ladles of basic curry gravy
1 teaspoon of Himalayan or Celtic sea salt
Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
How to make Bombay Potatoes
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Peel the potatoes and par- boil with a pinch of salt.
In a hot deep frying pan bring the oil to 190°c 375°f then fry the potatoes until golden brown.
In a shallow pan fry the sliced onions and bell pepper in the coconut oil or ghee over a medium / high heat until they are lightly brown.
Add all the spices and stir briefly try not to burn them.
Now add the basic curry gravy and fully combine along with the sliced tomatoes.
Add the cooked potatoes, salt then heat thoroughly.
Finally add the chopped coriander leaves and serve.
Goes well with:
Frequently asked questions for Bombay Potatoes
What are Bombay potatoes?
Bombay potatoes are a spicy, flavorful Indian-style potato dish typically made with boiled potatoes, spices, and herbs, often served as a side dish or snack.
How do I make Bombay potatoes?
The dish usually involves sautéing boiled potatoes with spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, along with onions, tomatoes, and sometimes green chilies or cilantro for extra flavour.
Can I customize the spice level?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of chili or spice to suit your taste, making it milder or spicier as preferred.
Are Bombay potatoes gluten-free?
Generally, yes, as long as no gluten-containing ingredients are added. Always check the recipe or ingredients used.
What are some common accompaniments?
Bombay potatoes pair well with rice, naan, or other Indian breads and can be served alongside curries or yogurt-based dishes.
Can I prepare Bombay potatoes in advance?
Yes, they can be made ahead and reheated. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Are Bombay potatoes vegan?
Typically, yes, but always check the recipe for any dairy or non-vegan ingredients; they can be easily made vegan by avoiding butter or dairy-based garnishes.
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Conclusion
Bombay potatoes are a delightful and versatile dish that perfectly complements any curry meal, adding a touch of Indian spice and comfort to your plate. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they are a great way to elevate your home-cooked Indian cuisine. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, Stevie's Curry Magic offers fantastic recipes and tips to help you master this delicious side dish. Give it a try and bring authentic Indian flavours to your dining table today!
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Cheers Steve.
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