Sajana Chuin Aloo Tarkari
A classic Odia curry where tender drumsticks and soft potatoes are simmered in a pungent mustard and garlic gravy. This authentic tarkari is a comforting and flavorful main dish, best enjoyed with steamed rice.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Mustard Paste (Besara)
- b.In a grinder jar, combine the mustard seeds, cumin seeds, garlic cloves, and dried red chilies.
- c.Add 3-4 tablespoons of water and grind to a smooth, fine paste. Set this 'besara' paste aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the Vegetables
- b.Heat 2 tablespoons of mustard oil in a kadai or pan over medium heat until it's slightly smoking.
- c.Carefully add the cubed potatoes and fry for 5-6 minutes until they are light golden brown on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- d.In the same oil, add the drumstick pieces and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they are lightly blistered. Remove and keep with the potatoes.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Prepare the Gravy Base
- b.Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of mustard oil to the same pan.
- c.Once hot, add the panch phoron and let the seeds crackle and become fragrant, which takes about 30 seconds.
- d.Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-6 minutes until it turns translucent and golden brown.
- e.Stir in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and oil begins to separate from the masala.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Simmer the Curry
- b.Add the prepared mustard paste (besara) to the pan. Stir continuously and cook for ONLY 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial; overcooking the mustard will make the entire curry bitter.
- c.Immediately add the fried potatoes and drumsticks back into the pan. Gently mix to coat the vegetables with the masala.
- d.Pour in 2 cups of warm water and stir well to combine everything. Bring the curry to a rolling boil.
- e.Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and drumsticks are fully cooked and the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and Serve
- b.Turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- c.Let the curry rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot with steamed rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a smoother paste, soak the mustard seeds in warm water for 20 minutes before grinding.
- 2Do not cook the mustard paste for more than 2 minutes, as it will release bitter compounds and spoil the taste of the curry.
- 3Using authentic cold-pressed mustard oil is key to achieving the traditional pungent flavor of this Odia dish.
- 4For added texture and protein, you can add a few fried 'badi' (sun-dried lentil dumplings) to the curry during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
- 5Lightly scrape the outer skin of the drumsticks before cutting them to remove any tough fibers.
Adapt it for your goals.
With Lentil Dumplings
Add 8-10 pre-fried 'badi' (sun-dried lentil dumplings) to the curry along with the water and let them simmer with the vegetables to soak up the flavors.
With Other VegetablesWith Other Vegetables
You can include other vegetables like cubed brinjal (eggplant) or pumpkin. Fry them along with the potatoes and add them to the curry.
Creamier GravyCreamier Gravy
For a slightly richer and less pungent gravy, add 1 tablespoon of soaked poppy seeds (posto) while grinding the mustard paste.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Nutrients
Drumsticks (Moringa) are a powerhouse of nutrients, including Vitamin C, Vitamin A, iron, and calcium, which help boost immunity and support bone health.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
The presence of curcumin in turmeric and beneficial compounds in mustard seeds and oil gives this dish strong anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Aids Digestion
Spices like cumin seeds and garlic used in the paste are known to stimulate digestive enzymes, promoting better digestion and gut health.
Good for Heart Health
Mustard oil is rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for cardiovascular health when consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a relatively healthy dish. Drumsticks (Sajana Chuin) are rich in vitamins and minerals, while mustard seeds and turmeric offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Using mustard oil in moderation provides healthy fats. It's a balanced vegetable curry, especially when eaten with rice.