Lesotho-style Spiced Potato Stew

Ingredients

In this Lesotho adaptation, we have incorporated the traditional flavors and ingredients of Lesotho cuisine. The original Afghan Taryal Patata is typically spiced with flavors like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. However, in this Lesotho-style Spiced Potato Stew, we have added a unique blend of Lesotho spices such as nutmeg, cloves, and paprika to give it a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, we have adjusted the cooking technique to create a thicker stew consistency, which is preferred in Lesotho cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Taryal patata, so you can check it out.

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks (900g) 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks (900g)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30ml) 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (30ml)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups (470ml) tomato puree 2 cups (470ml) tomato puree
• 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth 2 cups (470ml) vegetable broth
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 8g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add the potato chunks to the pot and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   Sprinkle the ground nutmeg, ground cloves, paprika, black pepper, and salt over the potatoes. Stir well to coat the potatoes evenly with the spices.
5. 5.
   Pour in the tomato puree and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. 6.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
7. 7.
   Once the stew is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
8. 8.
   Serve the Lesotho-style Spiced Potato Stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Make sure to cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure they cook uniformly.
• Tomato puree — If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can blend the tomato puree before adding it to the stew.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the stew.
• Serve the stew with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

Serving advice

Serve the Lesotho-style Spiced Potato Stew hot as a main course. It pairs well with a side of rice or bread.

Presentation advice

Garnish the stew with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to add a pop of color. Serve it in a deep bowl to showcase the chunky potatoes and rich tomato sauce.