Pan-Fried Aloo Tikki with Tangy Tamarind Chutney

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Golden pan-fried spiced potato patties served with a tangy and sweet tamarind chutney, perfect as a popular North Indian street food snack. This indian-inspired vegetarian ready in about 27 minutes blends medium, boiled and peeled potatoes, finely chopped green chilies, chopped fresh cilantro into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 220 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 15 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 Indian cuisine 220 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, mash 4 medium boiled peeled potatoes until smooth. Add 2 finely chopped green chilies, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp garam masala, 1/2 tsp amchur powder, and 1 tsp salt. Mix well.
  2. Step 2: Sprinkle 2 tbsp cornstarch over the potato mixture and combine thoroughly to bind the mixture for shaping.
  3. Step 3: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a flat round patty about 3 inches in diameter.
  4. Step 4: Heat 4 tbsp vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add patties in batches and fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  5. Step 5: Meanwhile, prepare tamarind chutney by combining 3 tbsp tamarind paste, 2 tbsp jaggery or brown sugar, 1/2 cup water, 1/2 tsp ground roasted cumin, 1/4 tsp red chili powder, and 1/4 tsp salt in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly, about 5 minutes. Let cool.
  6. Step 6: Serve the hot aloo tikkis with the tangy tamarind chutney as a dipping sauce for a delightful snack.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Fried Aloo Tikki with Tangy Tamarind Chutney take to make?

Total time is about 27 minutes (15 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Fried Aloo Tikki with Tangy Tamarind Chutney?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Fried Aloo Tikki with Tangy Tamarind Chutney?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Fried Aloo Tikki with Tangy Tamarind Chutney for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Pan-Fried Aloo Tikki with Tangy Tamarind Chutney?

Indian vegetarian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.