Name: Poori Aloo – Spiced Potatoes with Onion and Achar Oil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Pakistani
Ingredients: 1 onion, thinly sliced (100g); 4 yellow fleshed potatoes, roughly chopped into 1/2 inch pieces (3.5 cups or 400-420g peeled); 3/4 tsp crushed garlic (if using paste then use 1 tsp); 1/2 tsp grated ginger or 3/4 tsp ginger paste; 1 tsp salt; 3/4 tsp chili flakes; 3/4 tsp chili powder; 3/4 tsp turmeric / haldi; 1/2 tsp dhania powder / coriander powder; 1/2 tsp mustard seeds; 1/2 tsp kalonji/ nigella seeds; 1/2 tsp cumin seeds; 1/2 tsp saunf (lightly crushed); 1-2 tbsp of Achar Oil or Achar; Oil for sautéing; 3 cups water

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 10 reviews

If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with flavor and comforting textures, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Poori Aloo – Spiced Potatoes with Onion and Achar Oil Recipe. It’s a beloved classic that brings together tender, golden potatoes infused with the warmth of aromatic spices, sautéed onions, and the tangy kick of achar oil. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and slightly tangy notes that pair beautifully with flaky, crisp pooris. It’s an inviting recipe that’s easy to make yet packed with layers of flavor that feel like a warm hug from a cherished friend.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate with three folded golden brown flatbreads resting on the top right side, showing a light crispy texture. Below the flatbreads, on the right side, is a thick yellow potato curry with small black mustard seeds visible. To the left of the curry, there is a brown chickpea stew with whole chickpeas and soft texture. At the top left corner of the plate is a small white bowl filled with a pale brown creamy dessert, topped with a few chopped nuts, and a small green cilantro leaf placed beside it on the plate. The plate sits on a white marble surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To make this Poori Aloo – Spiced Potatoes with Onion and Achar Oil Recipe shine, you’ll want to gather a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building the vibrant colors, textures, and enticing aroma that make this dish so unforgettable.

Onion (100g, thinly sliced): Adds subtle sweetness and a satisfying bite once sautéed to golden perfection.
Garlic (3/4 tsp crushed): Offers pungent warmth and depth; paste form works just as well for an even flavor release.
Ginger (1/2 tsp grated or 3/4 tsp paste): Adds a crisp, peppery zest to brighten the taste.
Yellow fleshed potatoes (4, chopped into 1/2 inch pieces): The comforting, soft base simmered until tender, yet able to hold their shape just right.
Achar Oil (1-2 tbsp): This vibrant oil infuses a tangy, spicy punch that elevates the dish instantly.
Salt (1 tsp): Essential for highlighting all the flavors and balancing the spices.
Chili flakes (3/4 tsp) & chili powder (3/4 tsp): Both work together to inject a lively heat without overwhelming.
Turmeric/Haldi (3/4 tsp): Gives a warm, golden color and subtle earthy aroma.
Coriander powder/Dhania (1/2 tsp): Adds a fresh, slightly citrusy spice layer.
Mustard seeds (1/2 tsp): Create a nutty pop when toasted and add complexity.
Kalonji/Nigella seeds (1/2 tsp): Lend a slightly oniony, nutty flavor that’s unique and comforting.
Cumin seeds (1/2 tsp): Earthy and warm, they form the aromatic backbone of the spice mix.
Saunf (1/2 tsp, lightly crushed): Adds a sweet, anise-like undertone that rounds out the flavor beautifully.

How to Make Poori Aloo – Spiced Potatoes with Onion and Achar Oil Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Begin by heating a little oil in a pan over medium heat and adding the thinly sliced onions. Cook them gently until the edges turn a lovely light golden brown. This step is crucial because those caramelized edges give the dish a sweet and aromatic foundation that’s absolutely irresistible.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger

Next, stir in the crushed garlic and grated or paste ginger. Sauté everything together for about 30 seconds until the rawness fades and these fragrant ingredients release their unmistakable warmth, giving the dish a flavorful lift.

Step 3: Toast the Spices

Now comes the spice mix magic. Add mustard seeds, kalonji, cumin seeds, saunf, turmeric, chili flakes, chili powder, and coriander powder all at once. Let them toast gently for another 30 seconds. This toasting intensifies their aroma and spices up the dish perfectly without overpowering the delicate onions.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Water

Stir in the roughly chopped yellow potatoes, making sure they’re well coated with the spices and onions. Pour in three cups of water and mix everything thoroughly. The simmering will soften the potatoes while allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently until the potatoes are tender and cooked through. This tenderizing step is what transforms the dish from a simple potato curry to a comforting and hearty experience.

Step 6: Incorporate Achar Oil and Adjust Seasoning

Once the potatoes are tender, lightly mash some pieces by pressing gently with your spoon for a nice mix of textures—creamy and chunky. Stir in the achar oil, which adds that signature tang and spice that makes this Poori Aloo – Spiced Potatoes with Onion and Achar Oil Recipe truly unforgettable. Taste and adjust the salt or spice levels as needed before serving.

How to Serve Poori Aloo – Spiced Potatoes with Onion and Achar Oil Recipe

The image shows a black pot filled with a thick yellow stew made of soft potato pieces in a sauce with small black seeds and spices, with visible steam rising. A black spoon inside the pot holds some of the stew, showing the chunky, cooked potato pieces and the slightly oily texture of the sauce. The pot has a textured rim and a dark interior, contrasting with the bright yellow color of the food inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh coriander or chopped green chilies can elevate the dish beautifully. These garnishes add fresh color, a burst of flavor, and a pleasant crunch that play wonderfully with the soft potatoes.

Side Dishes

This Poori Aloo shines brightest when paired with freshly made pooris, but it also pairs wonderfully with parathas or plain steamed rice for a more filling meal. A side of cooling yogurt or raita helps balance the spicy, tangy achar oil’s intensity.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving this potato dish as a filling inside warm flatbreads, rolling it up for a quick snack. You can also spoon it over toasted bread topped with a dollop of yogurt and herbs for a beautifully textured brunch or appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Poori Aloo – Spiced Potatoes with Onion and Achar Oil Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making it perfect for quick weekday meals.

Freezing

If you want to keep it longer, freeze the spiced potatoes in a sealable freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to retain the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of water if it’s too thick. This approach ensures the potatoes don’t dry out and the spices stay vibrant.

FAQs

Can I use regular cooking oil instead of achar oil?

Absolutely! While achar oil gives a distinctive tangy spice, you can substitute with mustard oil or other neutral oils, but the unique flavor of the dish might be milder.

What type of potatoes works best for this recipe?

Yellow fleshed potatoes are ideal because they become tender yet hold their shape. Waxy potatoes can work too, but avoid super starchy ones that might turn mushy.

Is this dish spicy?

The heat level can be adjusted easily by modifying the chili flakes and powder amounts. It offers a pleasant warmth that complements the tangy achar oil without being overwhelming.

Can I prepare this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable ingredients and spices without any dairy or animal products.

How long does it take to cook?

The entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a flavorful and satisfying meal when you’re short on time.

Final Thoughts

This Poori Aloo – Spiced Potatoes with Onion and Achar Oil Recipe is a celebration of bold spices, comforting potatoes, and soul-warming flavors. It’s a dish you’ll crave again and again, perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself to a taste of home. Give it a try—you’ll be delighted by how effortlessly it turns simple ingredients into something truly special.