Simple & Tasty Aalu Potala Rasa (ଅଲୁ ପୋଟଳ ରସା) – Traditional Odia Comfort Food

Aalu Potala Rasa (ଅଲୁ ପୋଟଳ ରସା) is a very popular and comforting dish from Odisha. It is made with potatoes (Aalu) and pointed gourd (Potala), cooked in a tasty masala gravy. This dish is simple, easy to make, and full of flavour. Most Odia homes prepare this during lunch or dinner, especially with hot rice.

Let us learn how to make this simple and delicious Aalu Potala Rasa at home.

Ingredients

Potala (Pointed Gourd) – 8 to 10 pieces
Aalu (Potato) – 2 medium size, peeled and cut into cubes
Onion – 2 medium, finely chopped
Tomato – 1 large, chopped
Ginger-Garlic Paste – 1 tbsp
Mustard Seeds – 1/2 tsp
Cumin Seeds – 1/2 tsp
Turmeric Powder – 1/2 tsp
Red Chilli Powder – 1/2 tsp
Coriander Powder – 1 tsp
Garam Masala – 1/2 tsp
Salt – As per taste
Mustard Oil – 3 to 4 tbsp
Water – 1 to 1.5 cups
Fresh Coriander Leaves – for garnishing

How to Make Aalu Potala Rasa

Step 1: Preparation

Wash and peel the potala (pointed gourd). Cut them into halves or keep whole.
Peel and cut the potatoes into medium cubes.
Keep all masala and other ingredients ready.

Step 2: Frying the Veggies

Heat mustard oil in a pan till it starts smoking. Lower the flame.
Add the potala pieces and shallow fry till they turn golden. Remove and keep aside.
In the same oil, fry the potatoes slightly and keep aside.

Step 3: Making the Masala

In the same pan, add mustard seeds and cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
Add chopped onions and fry till golden brown.
Add ginger-garlic paste and cook till the raw smell goes.
Add tomatoes and cook till soft and mashed.
Now add turmeric, chilli, coriander powder, and salt. Cook the masala properly.

Step 4: Cooking the Curry

Add fried potatoes and potala into the masala. Mix well.
Add water as needed to make gravy. Cover and cook on low flame for 10–15 minutes, or until the veggies are soft.
Sprinkle garam masala at the end and mix.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the flame and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Why We Love Aalu Potala Rasa

It is healthy and light.
It uses simple ingredients found in every Indian kitchen.
Perfect for daily meals and also for festivals (without onion-garlic version).
Gives homely comfort with every bite.

Final Thoughts

Aalu Potala Rasa is more than just a dish. It brings the feeling of home and warmth. It reminds us of our mother’s or grandmother’s cooking. So next time you want to eat something simple, healthy, and tasty – try this traditional Odia recipe. You’ll surely love it!