Dopiazeh Aloo (Persian Potato Curry) Recipe
Introduction
Dopiazeh Aloo is a flavorful Persian potato curry, featuring tender potatoes cooked with caramelized onions and warming spices. This comforting dish balances earthy turmeric with the brightness of tomatoes, making it a perfect vegetarian main or side.

Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large tomato, diced (or ½ cup canned tomatoes)
- ½ teaspoon dried lime powder (optional, for tanginess)
- ½ cup water or vegetable broth
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the onions and mince the garlic cloves.
- Step 2: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden brown and caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
- Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Step 4: Add the cubed potatoes to the pan, tossing to coat them evenly with the onion and spice mixture.
- Step 5: Pour in the diced tomatoes and water or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine.
- Step 6: Cover the pan and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and the sauce thickens.
- Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If using, stir in the dried lime powder for a subtle tang.
- Step 8: Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving. Enjoy warm with flatbread or rice.
Tips & Variations
- Caramelizing the onions slowly brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
- For a spicier version, add chili flakes or fresh green chilies while cooking the spices.
- Use canned tomatoes when fresh tomatoes are out of season for convenience and consistent flavor.
- Garnish with toasted almonds or walnuts to add a crunchy texture.
- Serve topped with a fried egg for extra protein and richness.
Storage
Store leftover Dopiazeh Aloo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish also freezes well for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative. They will add a natural sweetness and slightly different texture, so adjust the seasoning to balance flavors.
What can I serve with Dopiazeh Aloo?
This dish pairs beautifully with warm flatbreads like lavash or pita, steamed basmati rice, or a side of yogurt. It also complements grilled meats and fresh salads well.
PrintDopiazeh Aloo (Persian Potato Curry) Recipe
Dopiazeh Aloo is a delicious Persian potato curry featuring caramelized onions, warming spices, and tender potatoes simmered in a flavorful tomato broth. This vegetarian dish balances earthy turmeric and cumin with the tanginess of dried lime powder, perfect to enjoy with rice or flatbread for a comforting, aromatic meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Persian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Dopiazeh Aloo:
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large tomato, diced (or ½ cup canned tomatoes)
- ½ teaspoon dried lime powder (optional, for tanginess)
- ½ cup water or vegetable broth
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Peel the potatoes and cut them into bite-sized cubes. Thinly slice the onions and mince the garlic cloves carefully to have all ingredients ready for cooking.
- Caramelize Onions: Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook them slowly for about 10-12 minutes until they turn golden brown and develop a sweet, rich flavor. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add Garlic & Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant and spices are well combined with the onions.
- Cook the Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pan, stirring well so they are coated evenly with the spiced onion mixture.
- Add Tomatoes & Liquid: Pour in the diced tomatoes along with water or vegetable broth. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer: Cover the pan and let it cook for 15-20 minutes over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check that the potatoes become tender and the sauce thickens nicely.
- Finish & Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt or spices if needed. If using dried lime powder, stir it in now for an added tangy flavor. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve warm alongside flatbread or rice.
Notes
- Use dried lime powder for authentic Persian tang, but it is optional if unavailable.
- Caramelizing onions slowly is key for deep flavor development.
- Can be made spicier by adding chili flakes or fresh chilies during the garlic and spices step.
- Leftovers store well and can be reheated for quick meals.
- Pairs beautifully with plain yogurt, grilled meats, or fresh salads.
Keywords: Dopiazeh Aloo, Persian Potato Curry, Vegetarian Curry, Caramelized Onion Curry, Persian Cuisine, Stovetop Curry, Potato Recipes

