Aloo Shimla mirch ki Sookhi Sabzi (no onion no garlic recipe)

Staying away from the home may not be seen as a great option. But, then indeed life away from the comfort zone and protection of parents is worth experiencing. For a foodie like me, I was introduced to an entirely new ocean of culinary delicacies. I love the way vegetables are perceived and treated differently in kitchens across various regions of India. For instance “Capsicum” or “Shimla mirch” would be used mainly for Chinese trial at home but not as “hero” sabzi.

In Delhi, I was living with a wonderful family from Uttar Pradesh for two year as part of PG accommodation. Both Uncle and Aunty were amazing cooks and at their place I was introduced to Aloo Shimla mirch ki Sookhi Sabzi. Though they used onions and garlic in their recipe, I thought of replicating it but without use of onions and garlic. It turned out well and I was happy that without additional ingredients it still managed to taste good.

Aloo Shimla mirch ki Sookhi Sabzi

Serves: 3 to 4 persons

Ingredients:

Capsicum (large) - 2 (chopped into cubes)

Potato (medium) - 3 (chopped into cubes)

Tomato (medium) - 2 (roughly chopped)

Coriander powder- 1 tbsp

Cumin powder- 2 tsp

Chili powder- 2 tsp

Cumin seeds- ½ tsp

Garam masala- ½ tsp

Ginger- 1 tsp (grated)

Oil- 11/2 tbsp

Salt to taste

Procedure:

Heat oil in pan, add cumin seeds and ginger. Fry it for few seconds and then add potatoes. Cover and cook till the potatoes are half fried. Meanwhile take the tomatoes, coriander powder, cumin powder, chili powder and grind it into a smooth paste. When the potatoes are fried well, add capsicum and fry it well. Cover and cook for 3-4 minutes. This will help the capsicum loose its raw smell. Then add the grounded masala, salt and stir everything well. Cover and cook till the potatoes, capsicums are done and the masala is well cooked. It may take around 15-20 minutes. When the masala starts sticking, just sprinkle some water and let it cook. Finally add garam masala and it is ready to be served.  

Notes:

You may also add finely chopped tomatoes instead of tomato paste.

You may also ground two green chilies along tomatoes to make it spicier.