Crisp fried lentil nuggets and parboiled potatoes are tossed in a vibrant, spiced fresh coriander and tomato gravy. It has an aromatic, herbal flavour with a gentle heat from ginger, black pepper, and chillies.
Boil 1200 g potato in salted water for 8 to 10 minutes until cooked through but still holding its shape, then drain and set aside.
Heat vegetable oil for deep-frying in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F). Fry 150 g mangodi for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown, lift out onto paper towels, then drop into a bowl of water to soften.
Combine the ground spices with 4 tablespoons of water in a small bowl.
Melt 46.2 g ghee in a wide pan over medium heat. Tip in the tempering spice and fry for about 1 minute until crackling.
Stir in 24 g ginger paste and sauté for 1 minute until its moisture has boiled off.
Add 250 g coriander leaf alongside the ground spices paste, frying for 1 to 2 minutes until dry.
Pour in 225 g tomato purée and cook for 5 minutes until the fat separates from the sauce.
Drain the soaked mangodi and add them to the pan along with the boiled potatoes and salt to taste. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce coats everything evenly.
Scatter in the finishing spice, stir well, take the pan off the heat, and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Use 50% of the weight and stir in near the end of cooking. Adds warmth and depth since it contains ground coriander, but introduces stronger spices like clove and cinnamon.
Steep a tiny pinch (0.1 g per 2 g turmeric) in 2 tbsp warm water; use to match the rich golden hue. Contributes an aristocratic, honeyed floral flavour rather than earthy bitterness.
Use 120% of the weight; melt gently over low heat to avoid burning the milk solids, which will yield a softer, creamier richness rather than a nutty aroma.
Use 40% to 50% of the fresh tomato weight mixed with a splash of water. Imparts a deeper red colour, thicker sauce, and slightly sweeter cooked flavour.