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Spicy Potato Salad (Aloo Achar Sadheko) (आलु अचार साधेको)

About Spicy Potato Salad (Aloo Achar Sadheko) (आलु अचार साधेको)

Aloo Achar Sadheko, or simply Aloo Achar, is a popular Nepali side dish and snack, known for its tangy, spicy, and savory flavors. It's a staple in many Nepali households and is often served with dal bhat (lentil soup, rice, and vegetables), sel roti (Nepali sweet bread), or as a standalone snack. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that perfectly captures the essence of Nepali cuisine.

Picture of Spicy Potato Salad (Aloo Achar Sadheko)

History

The history of Aloo Achar Sadheko, like many traditional Nepali dishes, is interwoven with the agricultural practices and culinary traditions of the region. Potatoes were introduced to Nepal centuries ago and gradually became a significant part of the diet. Achar, meaning pickle, has long been a method of preserving and adding flavor to food in Nepal. The combination of these two formed Aloo Achar Sadheko, a versatile and easy-to-make dish that was quickly adopted in homes across the country. It’s rooted in the need for simple yet delicious ways to spice up meals using easily available ingredients. While the exact origin can't be traced back to a single individual or moment, the dish has evolved through generations, with each family possibly having their own unique variation of the recipe. The commonality lies in the combination of boiled potatoes with a mix of spices, herbs, and a tangy element like lemon or lime juice.

Fact 1

Aloo Achar is a versatile dish and can be served as a side dish, a snack, or a part of a larger meal.

How to prepare?

Potatoes - 500g, boiled and cubedRed Onion - 1 medium, finely choppedGreen Chilies - 2-3, finely chopped (adjust to taste)Cilantro/coriander leaves - 2 tablespoons, finely choppedGinger - 1 teaspoon, finely mincedGarlic - 1 teaspoon, finely mincedTurmeric Powder - 1/2 teaspoonChili Powder - 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste)Fenugreek Seeds - 1/4 teaspoonMustard oil - 1 tablespoonSalt - To tasteLime/Lemon Juice - 1-2 tablespoons

Learn step by step to prepare Spicy Potato Salad (Aloo Achar Sadheko)

  • 1
    Boil the potatoes until they are cooked through but not mushy. Peel them and cut them into cubes.
  • 2
    In a small pan, heat mustard oil until it starts to shimmer. Add fenugreek seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds, but don't let them burn.
  • 3
    Add the minced garlic and ginger and saute until fragrant.
  • 4
    Add turmeric powder and chili powder and saute for a few seconds, being careful not to burn the spices. Remove from heat.
  • 5
    In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed potatoes, chopped onion, chopped green chilies, chopped coriander, and the tempered spice mixture from the pan.
  • 6
    Add salt to taste and the lime/lemon juice.
  • 7
    Mix everything well, ensuring all the potatoes are evenly coated with the spices and herbs.
  • 8
    Taste and adjust salt, spice, or sourness to your liking.
  • 9
    Let it rest for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld before serving. Enjoy!
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