Aloo Pie is a beloved Trinidadian street food consisting of deep-fried dough filled with seasoned mashed potatoes, typically served with tangy chutney. Originating in the culinary melting pot of Trinidad and Tobago, this dish reflects the diverse cultural influences of Indian and Caribbean flavors. Its popularity has spread beyond the islands, becoming a favorite snack enjoyed worldwide for its irresistible blend of textures and flavors.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups mashed potatoes

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1 tsp baking powder

- 1/2 tsp salt

- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder

- 1/2 tsp cumin powder

- 1/4 cup water (adjust as needed)

- Oil for deep frying

Method:

- In a bowl, mix mashed potatoes with turmeric, cumin, and salt.

- In another bowl, combine flour and baking powder.

- Gradually add water to the flour mixture, kneading to form a smooth dough.

- Divide dough into small balls and flatten each into a circle.

- Spoon potato mixture onto the center of each circle and fold over to enclose, sealing the edges.

- Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.

- Carefully place filled dough into the hot oil and fry until golden brown.

- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

- Serve hot with your favorite chutney. Enjoy your homemade Aloo Pie!

Nutrition Value:

Mashed Potatoes (2 cups):

  - Calories: Approximately 200 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Around 46 grams

  - Protein: Roughly 5 grams

  - Fat: Minimal, less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: Depends on added salt, usually around 20-30 mg

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: Good source of vitamin C, B6, and potassium

  - Minerals: Contains potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus

Benefit: Provides energy from carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals necessary for various bodily functions.

All-Purpose Flour (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 455 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Around 95 grams

  - Protein: Roughly 13 grams

  - Fat: Minimal, less than 1 gram

  - Sodium: Typically less than 10 mg

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: Contains small amounts of vitamin B

  - Minerals: Provides iron and magnesium

Benefit: Mainly a source of carbohydrates and protein for energy and structuion

baking.

Baking Powder (1 tsp):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Approximately 500 mg (depending on brand)

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: None

  - Minerals: None

Benefit: Helps dough rise and become light and fluffy when fried.

Salt (1/2 tsp):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Around 1150 mg

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: None

  - Minerals: Provides sodium

Benefit: Enhances flavor, but should be consumed in moderation due to high sodium content.

Turmeric Powder (1/2 tsp):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C

  - Minerals: Rich in iron and manganese

Benefit: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties and adds color and flavor to the dish.

Cumin Powder (1/2 tsp):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: Contains vitamin C

  - Minerals: Provides iron and manganese

Benefit: Adds a distinctive flavor and may aid digestion.

Water (1/4 cup):

  - Calories: Negligible

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Negligible

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: None

  - Minerals: None

Benefit: Essential for hydration and to bind the dough ingredients together.

Oil for Deep Frying:

  - Calories: Approximately 120 kcal per tablespoon (varies depending on type)

  - Carbohydrates: Negligible

  - Protein: Negligible

  - Fat: Around 14 grams per tablespoon (varies depending on type)

  - Sodium: Negligible

  - Cholesterol: None

  - Vitamins: None

  - Minerals: None

Benefit: Provides fat for frying, but should be consumed in moderation due to its high calorie content.