Urulakkizhangu Podimas /Potato Podimas /Mashed Potato Stir Fry

The literal meaning of podimas is ‘mash’. Urulakkizhangu podimas is the name given to mashed potatoes with seasoning. The aroma of this dish rings a bell in my heart and the nostalgic memories of my childhood gush through me. This dish is a fine combination of potatoes, onions, green chillies, mustard seeds and curry leaves. Easy to make and it is served with rasam/sambar and white rice, as a filling for masala dosas or can be served as a side dish with rotis too!!

Potatoes /Uralakkizhangu : 4 (large)
Onion : 1 (large,chopped)
Green chillies : 5 or according to your spice level (chopped)
Curry leaves : 1 sprig
Urad dal : 1 tsp
Mustard seeds : 1/2 tsp
Turmeric powder : 1/4 tsp
Channa dal : 1 tsp
Fresh lime juice : 2 tsp (optional)
Oil : 2 tbsp
Salt to taste

Method of Preparation:

1. Wash the potatoes and cut them into four pieces and boil the potatoes. (I do it in a microwave for 6-8 minutes in baked potatoes)
2. Remove the skin and mash it gently with your hand or the back of a spoon.(Don’t make it smooth)
3. Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds,when the mustard seeds pop, add channa dal and urad dal, turmeric powder,curry leaves and sauté for a minute.
4. Add chopped onion,chopped green chillies and saute till it turns to translucent.
5. Now add salt and the mashed potato and mix well. Cover and cook in medium flame for about a minute.
6. Optional – Just before serving, sprinkle over the lime juice…Serve hot with steamed rice and Rasam and Enjoy!