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Pakistani Potato Side

Serves 4 to 6 Side vegetarian, Sides

Pakistani Potato Side

The Pakistani Potato Side is a beloved staple at tables across Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and Islamabad. It's a dish that finds its place in both everyday meals and special occasions, offering comfort and familiarity. Traditionally, it’s prepared with a generous hand of salt and oil, embodying the essence of home-cooked warmth. This version captures the spirit of a Pakistani family kitchen, where ingredients are measured by the heart and the table is always set for sharing.

Expect a delightful harmony of soft potatoes infused with the warm spice of paprika and a gentle touch of black pepper, all enveloped in a luscious coat of oil. The dish delivers a satisfying balance of flavors, with each bite offering a slight kick and a comforting mouthfeel, making it a perfect accompaniment to any main course. It’s not just a side; it's an invitation to gather and enjoy the simple pleasures of home.

Ingredients

  • 1 kgpotatoes
  • 80 mloil
  • 1 tsppaprika
  • to tastefine sea salt and black pepper

Method

  1. Peel and cut 1 kg of potatoes into even-sized cubes, about 1.5 cm each. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb flavors uniformly.
  2. In a large, heavy-bottomed pan, heat 80 ml of oil over medium heat. The oil should shimmer slightly, indicating it's hot enough to start cooking.
  3. Add the potato cubes to the pan, stirring to coat them evenly with the oil. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to develop a light golden color on the edges.
  4. Sprinkle 1 tsp of paprika over the potatoes and stir well to combine. The paprika will add a mild heat and vibrant color to the dish.
  5. Continue cooking the potatoes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender when pierced with a fork and have a crispy exterior. This should take about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the cubes.
  6. Season the potatoes with fine sea salt and black pepper to taste. Toss well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
  7. Serve the Pakistani Potato Side warm, allowing the flavors to meld and the spices to shine. This dish is perfect for sharing at the table, embodying the communal spirit of Pakistani home cooking.
Cover of Authentic Pakistani Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Pakistani Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Pakistani Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Pakistani volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

Available soon on Amazon…

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