Bengali Aloo Posto Recipe - Authentic Potato in Poppy Seed Curry

Aloo Posto is a beloved Bengali comfort food - simple potatoes cooked in a creamy poppy seed paste. This authentic recipe uses our Panch Phoran for that signature Bengali flavor.

Ingredients

• 4 medium potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• 3 tbsp white poppy seeds (posto)
• 2 tsp Phoran Panch Phoran
• 1 tsp Phoran Turmeric Powder
• 2-3 green chilies
• 3 tbsp mustard oil (or any cooking oil)
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Poppy Seed Paste

Soak poppy seeds in warm water for 15-20 minutes. Grind to a smooth paste with 2-3 green chilies and a little water. The paste should be creamy and smooth.

Step 2: Temper with Panch Phoran

Heat mustard oil in a kadhai or wok until it starts smoking slightly (this removes the pungency). Reduce heat to medium, add Phoran Panch Phoran. Let the five spices sizzle for 5-10 seconds until fragrant. This tempering is the soul of Bengali cooking!

Step 3: Add Potatoes

Add cubed potatoes to the tempered spices. Stir well to coat with oil and spices. Add turmeric powder and salt. Fry for 2-3 minutes on medium heat.

Step 4: Add Poppy Seed Paste

Add the ground poppy seed paste to the potatoes. Mix well. Add 1 cup water (adjust for desired consistency). The curry should be creamy, not too thick or too thin.

Step 5: Cook Until Done

Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally. Add sugar in the last 5 minutes - this balances the flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Final Touch

Once potatoes are cooked and the curry has thickened to a creamy consistency, turn off heat. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

• Use mustard oil for authentic Bengali flavor, but any oil works
• Don't skip the sugar - it's traditional and balances the dish
• Poppy seed paste should be smooth - grind well for creamy texture
• Panch Phoran tempering is crucial - don't burn the spices, just let them sizzle
• Adjust water based on how thick you want the curry

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with:
- Steamed white rice (traditional Bengali style)
- Roti or paratha
- Dal on the side
- A squeeze of lemon juice

Why Phoran Panch Phoran is Essential

Authentic Aloo Posto requires the perfect balance of five spices - fenugreek, nigella, cumin, black mustard, and fennel. Our Panch Phoran is hand-blended following traditional Bengali ratios, ensuring you get that authentic taste every time. No need to buy and measure five different spices!

Variations

Aloo Posto with Coconut: Add 2 tbsp grated coconut to the poppy seed paste
Aloo Begun Posto: Add cubed eggplant along with potatoes
Richer Version: Add 1 tbsp ghee at the end for extra richness

Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4 people
Difficulty: Easy

Experience authentic Bengali home cooking with this simple yet delicious recipe. Order Phoran Panch Phoran and bring Bengali flavors to your kitchen!