Have you tried Jackie Shroff's Fansi Aloo Recipe?

Craving a dish that's simple yet bursting with flavour? Look no further than Fansi Aloo, a vibrant Indian recipe that's both easy on your wallet and your taste buds. This colourful creation hails from the bustling streets of Gujarat, a state renowned for its rich culinary traditions and vibrant spices. But don't be fooled by its simplicity – Fansi Aloo packs a punch with its unique combination of textures and flavours, leaving you wanting more with every bite.

Potatoes at their Best!

Fansi Aloo's origins are shrouded in the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine. While its exact birthplace remains a mystery, many believe it hails from the bustling streets of Delhi, where it quickly gained popularity for its affordability and ease of preparation. Today, Fansi Aloo is enjoyed across the country, with variations reflecting regional preferences and family traditions.

India X Tunisia

At its core, Fansi Aloo is a celebration of the potato. Thinly sliced potatoes are deep-fried until golden and crispy, creating a textural contrast that's both addictive and satisfying. The real magic, however, lies in the green harissa, a vibrant condiment that adds a symphony of flavours. This fiery blend of herbs, spices, and chillies infuses the potatoes with a depth of taste that's both spicy and aromatic.

Fresh Pantry Essential 

Green Harissa is the soul of Fansi Aloo. Traditionally made with fresh coriander, mint, chillies, and spices, it imparts a unique blend of heat, freshness, and earthiness. However, finding authentic green harissa outside India can be a challenge. Here's where Chilzo’s Green Harissa comes in like a culinary knight in shining armour.

Why Chilzo?

Crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients, Chilzo’s Green Harissa captures the essence of authentic harissa without compromising on flavour or convenience. Unlike store-bought versions that often rely on artificial additives and preservatives, Chilzo's stays true to tradition, using only real ingredients like sun-dried chillies, fresh herbs, and spices.

Onto the Recipe!

Ingredients you need to make Aloo Fansi:

• 250g fresh green beans (fansi), trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• tbsp Chilzo’s Green Harissa
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 green chillies, finely chopped (adjust according to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Follow these simple steps and make Jackie Dada's favourite Aloo Fansi recipe!

1. Heat up the vegetable oil in your pan. Throw in the cumin and mustard seeds – let them crackle with anticipation like tiny cannons firing.
2. Add the chopped onion – and saute it until it becomes translucent.
3. Muster the garlic, ginger, and chillies – cook for a minute, releasing their fragrant treasure.
4. The potatoes, our sturdy mates, get diced and join the crew. Cook for a bit, until they soften up.
5. Time for the green beans (fansi) to join the party! Give everything a good stir to combine.
6. Sprinkle the turmeric, coriander, and cumin powders. Add our magic spice tbsp Chilzo’s Green Harissa to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. Mix well so the flavours become one.
7. Batten down the hatches! Cover the pan and let the veggies simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. We want them tender, like happy pirates after finding their loot.
8. Season with salt to taste – adjust based on your preference.

Victory! Garnish with fresh coriander leaves – a final flourish of green goodness. Serve your Fansi Aloo with roti, paratha, or rice – a hearty meal fit for the most adventurous crew!