Aloor Chop(আলুর চপ)

 **Kolkatar Aloor Chop** (Bengali-style potato fritters) is a popular street snack in Kolkata. These deep-fried potato patties, coated in a gram flour batter, are crispy on the outside and soft inside. Here’s how to make them:

### Ingredients:

#### For the Filling:

- 4 large potatoes (boiled and mashed)

- 2 green chilies (finely chopped)

- 1-inch ginger (grated)

- 1 tsp cumin seeds

- 1 tsp turmeric powder

- 1 tsp red chili powder

- 1 tsp roasted cumin powder

- 1 tsp garam masala powder

- Salt to taste

- Fresh coriander leaves (chopped)

- Mustard oil (for frying)

#### For the Batter:

- 1 cup besan (gram flour)

- 1 tbsp rice flour (for extra crispiness)

- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder

- 1/4 tsp red chili powder

- A pinch of baking soda (optional, for lightness)

- Water (for making the batter)

- Salt to taste

### Instructions:

#### 1. Prepare the Filling:

- Heat 2 tbsp mustard oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.

- Add grated ginger and green chilies, sauté for a minute.

- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, roasted cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.

- Add the boiled and mashed potatoes, mixing thoroughly to incorporate the spices. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.

- Add garam masala and chopped coriander leaves. Stir well, and cook for another minute before turning off the heat.

- Let the mixture cool slightly, and then shape it into small, flat discs (patties).

#### 2. Prepare the Batter:

- In a bowl, mix besan, rice flour, turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and a pinch of baking soda.

- Gradually add water to make a smooth, thick batter (similar to pancake batter).

#### 3. Fry the Aloor Chop:

- Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan for deep frying.

- Dip each potato patty into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated.

- Gently slide the coated patties into the hot oil. Fry on medium heat until they turn golden brown and crispy.

- Remove from oil and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

#### 4. Serve:

- Serve hot with kasundi (Bengali mustard sauce), tomato ketchup, or any chutney of your choice.

- It pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea!

Enjoy your crispy, flavorful **Kolkatar Aloor Chop**!