| 1 | Dissolve tamarind paste in 1 cup water. |
| 2 | Let stand 30 minutes. |
| 3 | Strain. |
| 4 | Boil potatoes until just tender. |
| 5 | Cool completely, then peel. |
| 6 | Using wooden skewer, pierce each potato in 4 places. |
| 7 | Heat oil in heavy large skillet over medium heat. |
| 8 | Add onion and cook until crisp and lightly browned, stirring frequently, about 10 minutes. |
| 9 | Remove from skillet. |
| 10 | Add potatoes and brown well on all sides. |
| 11 | Remove from skillet. |
| 12 | Pour off all but 1 tablespoon oil from skillet. |
| 13 | Add ginger and garlic and stir 1 minute. |
| 14 | Stir in pepper flakes and turmeric. |
| 15 | Blend in 2 tablespoons water. |
| 16 | Mix in onion. |
| 17 | Add potatoes, tamarind liquid and remaining 14 tablespoons water. |
| 18 | Stir in cardamom, fennel, cinnamon and pepper. |
| 19 | Cover and simmer until sauce has thickened slightly, about 15 minutes. |
| 20 | Season with salt. |
| 21 | * |