Aloo Bonda (Fried potato dumplings)

Aloo Bonda is one of my favorite snacks. I like it very spicy. Its also a popular snack that is sold in portable carts near schools and colleges in Tamil Nadu(a southern state in India). You can make it as spicy or mild as you like. Here is how you make these delicious balls.

You need:

• 2 medium size potatoes
• 1/2 cup minced onions
• Chili powder as per taste
• Garlic paste 1/2 teaspoon or fresh minced garlic 2-3 cloves
• ginger past 1/4 teaspoon or fresh minced ginger 1/2 inch piece
• Black mustard seeds1/2 teaspoon
• cumin seed 1/2 teaspoon
• channa dal and urad dal 1/2 teaspoon each (optional)
• Turmeric 1/4 teaspoon
• a few curry leaves, chopped(optional)
• Cilantro 10 stalks, chopped
• Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
• Salt to taste

For batter:

• Besan (chickpea flour) 1 cup
• chili powder, a pinch
• Water
• Salt
• Oil for deep frying

Cook and smash the potatoes. Make sure you don't mash them completly. It should be chunky. Heat the oil in a fry pan or kadai until it smokes slightly. Meanwhile heat two to three tablespoons of oil in another pan. When this oil starts to smoke add the mustard and cumin seeds. When they start popping add the onions, curry leaves and dals if using. Fry till the onions turn translucent and the dals are golden brown in color . Add the turmeric, ginger and garlic either as paste or fresh and saute the mixture for a minute. Add chili powder, salt and cilantro. Add the lemon juice. Remove from heat and add the potatoes. Mix well. Make two inch size dumplings with the potato mixture. Keep aside.

Make a pancake like consistency batter with the besan, chili powder, salt and water. Dip each potato dumpling in the batter and drop it carefully in the hot oil. Fry till the dumplings are golden brown in color. Drain on paper towels and serve right away.

You can use any variety of potato. The potato mixture can be made ahead a day earlier and fried the next day. This potato mixture by itself can also be used as a side dish with flat bread, or try it as a spread for veggie sandwich. You'll just need a touch of ketchup to go with it.