Batatyacha Bhujna - Indian style potatoes

There is nothing more comforting than the all time favorite vegetable - Potato.  Batata is a marathi word for potato and this dish Batatchya Bhujna meaning Potato Dish is a typical Maharashtrian dish that my aji (grandma) used to make back in the day.  It is so simple to make yet so glorious. Do not forget to make varan or dal and white rice to compliment this dish.

1 medium onion, sliced thin and lengthwise

2 to 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped

1 inch thick piece of ginger, finely chopped

1 bay leaf

1 inch piece of cinnamon

Teeny tiny pinch of clove powder

4 to 6 baby potatoes, peeled, washed, and sliced in circles making sure the circles are evenly thick

1/4 tsp turmeric powder

1/4 tsp red chilli powder

Generous dash of paprika powder (for color)

1. Heat oil in a flat bottom pan. Turn the heat to medium.  Add the bay leaf and cinnamon stick.  Add the garlic and ginger.  When fragrant, add the onions. Turn the flame to low and add the onions.  Spread the onions out so they have room to sweat.  Sautee the onions once in a while and let them turn translucent.  (About 5 minutes)

2. Add the turmeric powder, just a pinch of clove powder, red chilli powder, few tbsps of water and mix well.  Sautee for another few minutes.

3. Add paprika powder (I put it right out of the dispenser, so about 2 to 3 squirts will do it). Paprika burns very easily. So, make sure the heat is on low. As soon as  you add paprika, mix the contents really well. Add about 1/4 cup water and stir.  Let cook for 2 to 3 minutes.

4. Now add the potatoes. Again spread them out in the pan, so they have adequate room to quick evenly.  Add salt and mix.  Add a little water if necessary.  Cover and cook until the potatoes are cooked. Do not overcook the potatoes. The potatoes should be soft but not turn mushy.