Dopiazeh Aloo Persian Potato Curry Recipe
Introduction
Dopiazeh Aloo is a comforting Persian potato curry that highlights the sweet, caramelized flavor of golden onions paired with tender potatoes in a spiced tomato base. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a cozy dinner any day of the week.

Ingredients
- 500 g potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Step 2: Add the sliced onions to the pan and sauté until golden brown and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
- Step 3: Stir in the turmeric powder and coriander powder, cooking for 1 minute to blend the spices with the onions.
- Step 4: Add the cubed potatoes to the pan and toss them with the onion and spice mixture so they are well coated.
- Step 5: Stir in the tomato paste, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly.
- Step 6: Pour in the water, cover the pan, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
- Step 7: Remove the lid, add fresh lemon juice, and stir to combine.
- Step 8: Adjust seasoning if needed and let the curry simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken slightly.
- Step 9: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, add a pinch of garam masala or cinnamon with the spices.
- To make it vegan-friendly, ensure your tomato paste does not contain added dairy ingredients.
- Serve with warm naan bread or steamed basmati rice for a satisfying meal.
Storage
Store leftover curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this dish?
Yes, waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well as they hold their shape during cooking.
Is this dish spicy?
This curry is mildly spiced with warming spices but not hot. You can add chili powder or fresh chilies if you prefer more heat.
PrintDopiazeh Aloo Persian Potato Curry Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of golden, caramelized onions mingling with tender potatoes in a spiced tomato base. This comforting Persian-inspired curry combines turmeric, cumin, and coriander with tomato paste and fresh lemon juice for a vibrant, hearty dish perfect for any meal.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Persian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 500 g potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1⁄2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Toast Seeds: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant, releasing their aroma.
- Caramelize Onions: Add the thinly sliced onions to the pan and sauté them over medium heat until they turn a rich golden brown and become caramelized, about 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in turmeric powder and coriander powder, stirring continuously for about 1 minute to toast the spices and fully blend their flavors with the caramelized onions.
- Incorporate Potatoes: Add the peeled and cubed potatoes to the pan, tossing them well with the spiced onion mixture so they are evenly coated with the flavors.
- Add Tomato Paste and Season: Stir in the tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Curry: Pour in 1/2 cup of water, cover the pan, and reduce heat to low. Let the curry simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove the lid, stir in the fresh lemon juice, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Let the curry simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top before serving to add a fresh, herbal note.
Notes
- Use medium-sized potatoes for even cooking.
- Adjust the amount of water to get your desired curry consistency.
- Caramelizing onions slowly is key to developing the deep flavor of this dish.
- Serve with rice or warm flatbread for a complete meal.
- For a spicier version, add a chopped green chili or red chili powder when adding the spices.
Keywords: Dopiazeh Aloo, Persian potato curry, caramelized onions curry, vegetarian potato curry, Persian cuisine, tomato-based curry

