Cook the potatoes in a pan of boiling water for about 20 minutes, or until soft, then drain and allow to cool.
When the potatoes are cool, peel off their skins, return to the pan and mash.
Heat the oil in a pan, add the garlic paste and fry for about 2 minutes.
Add the remaining ingredients except the oil for deep-frying and cook for another 2 minutes.
Remove from the heat, mix in the mashed potatoes, then divide the mixture into 12 walnut-sized balls.
Put the gram flour and cumin in a bowl and mix together, adding enough water to make a thin batter.
Heat enough oil for deep-frying in a kadhai or deep, heavy-based pan to 180’C / 350”F, or until a cube of bread browns in 30 seconds.
Dip the potato balls in the batter and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
Deep-fry until golden brown, then remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper (paper towels).
You may need to cook the potato balls in batches.