Aloo Bonda | Potato Bonda

Aloo Bonda is a popular Indian tea-time snack that features a crispy golden exterior with a spicy, mashed potato filling. This deep-fried delight is a favorite street food in India and is often enjoyed with chutney or a cup of hot chai. If you love crispy snacks with a flavorful filling, Aloo Bonda is a must-try!

What is Aloo Bonda?

Also known as Batata Vada in Maharashtra, is a deep-fried snack made with mashed potatoes spiced with herbs and coated in a gram flour (besan) batter. The result is a crunchy, golden-brown snack with a soft and flavorful center. This dish is often served with coconut chutney or green chutney and is especially popular during the monsoon season.

Ingredients

For the Potato Filling:

• 3 medium-sized potatoes (boiled and mashed)
• 1 green chili (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 8-10 curry leaves (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons coriander leaves (chopped)
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon oil

For the Batter:

• 1 cup gram flour (besan)
• 2 tablespoons rice flour (for extra crispiness)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste
• A pinch of baking soda
• Water (as needed for batter consistency)
• Oil for deep frying

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potato Filling

1. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds. Let them splutter.
2. Add cumin seeds, chopped green chili, grated ginger, and curry leaves. Sauté for a few seconds.
3. Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Stir well.
4. Mix in the mashed potatoes and salt. Stir everything together.
5. Add coriander leaves and lemon juice. Mix well and let the mixture cool.
6. Once cooled, shape the mixture into small round balls.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

1. In a bowl, mix gram flour, rice flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and baking soda.
2. Add water gradually to form a smooth, thick batter.

Step 3: Fry the Aloo Bonda

1. Heat oil in a deep pan for frying.
2. Dip each potato ball into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
3. Carefully drop the coated balls into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve Aloo Bonda hot with coconut chutney, mint chutney, or tamarind chutney.
• Enjoy it with a cup of hot masala chai for a classic combination.
• Pair it with pav (bread roll) to make a delicious Vada Pav.

Tips for the Perfect Aloo Bonda

• Ensure the potato mixture is completely cool before shaping the balls.
• The batter should be thick enough to coat the potato balls evenly.
• Fry in medium-hot oil to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• For an extra crunchy texture, add a little semolina (suji) to the batter.

Aloo Bonda is a comforting and flavorful snack that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are craving a crispy tea-time treat or looking for a delicious appetizer, this dish will surely satisfy your taste buds.