Spiced Indian-Style Potato Soup

1. Heat Oil

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a 3-quart pot over medium flame. You’ll know the oil is ready when it begins to shimmer.

2. Add Asafetida and Cumin Seeds

Once the oil is hot, add a pinch of ground asafetida and the cumin seeds. Stir these spices for a moment, allowing them to release their aromatic essence.

3. Add Potatoes and Spices

Next, add the quartered potatoes, tomato paste, ground turmeric, salt, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Stir these ingredients together and let them fry for about two minutes.

4. Add Water and Simmer

Pour in the 4 cups of water, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot with a lid, and let it cook for 45 minutes.

5. Mash Potatoes

After 45 minutes, turn off the heat. Using a potato masher or a slotted spoon, coarsely mash the potatoes directly in the pot to create a comforting texture that thickens the soup while leaving delightful chunks of potato.

6. Serve

Finally, pour the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy the hearty, spiced flavors of this Indian-style potato soup.