Aloo Simla Mirch - Curried Potatoes with Red Bell Pepper

 An easy to make curry of potatoes, tomatoes and peppers; adapted from dishes we found in eastern India.

Aloo Simla Mirch - curried potatoes with red bell pepper

· 4 medium potatoes

· 1 large onion

· 3 cloves garlic

· 1/2 t mustard seeds

· 1/2 t cumin seeds

· 2-6 fresh green chilies

· 1 red bell pepper

· 1-2 T oil or ghee

· 2 medium tomatoes

· 1 t coriander powder

· 1/2 t turmeric

· pinch of hing [asafoetida]

· 1/2 cup chopped cilantro or parsley

1. Boil or microwave the potatoes, leaving them slightly underdone. Cut into 1" cubes

2. Chop onion and garlic very fine, a food processor works well for this

3. Select 2-6 green chilies, for example, Serrano, jalapeno or cayenne to taste. Remove seeds & vein and chop coarsely. Can substitute canned green chilies, but may have to add red pepper flakes for heat. Cut thee red pepper into 1/2" strips

4. Heat oil in a large cast iron skillet [or equivalent]. add the mustard seeds, cumin seeds stir fry for a few seconds releasing the flavors. Then add onions, green chilies and garlic and sauté on medium heat until the onions turn light brown ( 10-15' )

5. Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric, hing and coriander powder and salt to taste. Continue to cook for 5'

6. Add the potatoes, mix, then simmer with cover on for 4-5'

7. Garnish with parsley or cilantro