Description

Urulai Roast, also known as Urulaikizhangu Varuval, is a classic South Indian dish featuring crispy pan-fried potatoes coated in flavorful spices. This popular side dish offers a delightful texture contrast with its soft interior and crisp exterior, making it a perfect accompaniment to rice and other curries.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 4-5 medium Potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes or quarters)
• 3-4 tablespoons Oil (for frying)

Spice Mix

• 1/2 teaspoon Mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon Urad dal
• 1 sprig Curry leaves
• 2-3 Dry red chilies (broken into two)
• 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1-2 teaspoon Red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Cumin powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Asafoetida (Hing)
• Salt (to taste)

Instructions

1. Parboil the potatoes: In a pot, boil the cut potatoes with enough water and a pinch of salt until they are about 70-80% cooked. They should be slightly tender but still hold their shape. Drain the water completely.
2. Heat oil in a wide pan or kadai over medium heat.
3. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter. Then add urad dal and fry until it turns golden brown.
4. Add dry red chilies and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds until the curry leaves become crisp.
5. Add asafoetida and sauté for a quick moment.
6. Add the parboiled potatoes to the pan. Gently mix to coat the potatoes with the tempering.
7. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well to ensure all potatoes are evenly coated with the spice powders.
8. Reduce the heat to low-medium and cover the pan. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the potatoes to absorb the flavors and cook through.
9. Uncover the pan and increase the heat slightly to medium. Fry the potatoes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. This may take another 15-20 minutes, depending on the pan and heat.
10. Once the potatoes are roasted to your desired crispiness, turn off the heat.
11. Serve hot as a side dish.