Chef Priya
Priya's Kitchen Notes

Easy recipes, bold spices, and stories from my family kitchen.

Starter Guide To Indian Flavor

Spicy Maharashtrian Potato Curry

Batata Chi Bhaji

(42 reviews)
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Batata Chi Bhaji is a Maharashtrian delight that often graced our breakfast table. Its spicy, tangy flavor is a treat with fluffy puris or simple steamed rice.

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Spicy Maharashtrian Potato Curry
Prep time:15 mins
Cook time:30 mins
Total time:45 mins

Protein

5g

Carbs

45g

Fat

7g

Calories

250 kcal

Servings:
4
VegetarianGluten FreeVegan

Ingredients

potatoes4 medium
(boiled, peeled, and cubed)
onion1 large
(finely chopped)
tomato2 medium
(chopped)
garlic4 cloves
(minced)
fresh ginger1 tsp
(grated)
green chili2
(slit lengthwise)
curry leaves10
(fresh)
oil3 tbsp
(vegetable or peanut oil)
tamarind paste1 tbsp
(adjust to taste)
saltto taste
fresh cilantrofor garnish
(chopped)

Spices

mustard seeds1 tsp
asafoetidaa pinch
ground turmeric0.50 tsp
red chili powder1 tsp
coriander powder1 tsp

Directions

Prepare the Masala Base

  1. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and let them splutter.
  2. Add asafoetida, curry leaves, and green chilies. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, about 7–8 minutes.
  4. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking another 2 minutes until aromatic.

Cook the Potatoes

  1. Add turmeric, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Mix well.
  2. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add cubed potatoes, stirring gently to coat them with the spice mixture.
  4. Mix in tamarind paste and about 1/2 cup of water to create a slightly thick gravy.
  5. Cover and let simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Chef's tip: Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed, but keep it slightly thick for a rich curry.

Finish and Serve

  1. Season with salt to taste and give it a final mix.
  2. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with puris or rice.

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Collection of Indian Spice Blends

My Go-To Spice Blends

These are the five homemade spice blends I reach for again and again. Check out my free list of cherished family recipes that will bring bold, authentic flavor to your cooking.

Behind the Recipe

Chef Priya in her kitchen

Hi! I'm Priya. I grew up in Delhi in a tiny kitchen filled with noise, spices, and stories. I learned to cook the way most of us do—by watching, tasting, and eventually doing. My mother never measured anything, but somehow every dish was perfect.

After I moved to the U.S., I found myself cooking the same dishes to feel close to home. Friends would ask for recipes, and I realized how unfamiliar Indian cooking still felt to many people here. That's what led me to start sharing—not just the food, but the how and why behind each step.

These recipes are rooted in tradition but shaped by life abroad. I try to keep things practical without losing what makes them special. If you've ever wanted to bring more Indian flavor into your kitchen, I hope this is a good place to start.