Entree: India – Northeast Hills – আলু পিঠিকা ➤ Alu Pitika (Smoky mashed potato seasoned with mustard oil, onions, and green chilies)

Food safety reminder: Follow safe food-handling practices and use a food thermometer to verify safe internal cooking temperatures.

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 20 min

Total 35 min

Ingredients

- 2 lb (900 g) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) mustard oil
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp (8 g) fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tsp (6 g) kosher salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp (1 g) black pepper, freshly ground
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) lime juice (optional)
- 1 oz (30 g) smoked dried fish, flaked (shutki) (optional, authentic regional addition)

Instructions

1. Place potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil and simmer until tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
2. While still warm, peel any remaining skins and mash the potatoes coarsely with a fork or potato masher; leave some texture rather than making a smooth puree.
3. Stir in mustard oil while the potatoes are warm so the oil disperses; add the chopped onion, green chilies, cilantro, salt, pepper, and lime juice if using. Fold in flaked smoked dried fish if using.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve at room temperature alongside steamed rice or roti.