Indian Summer Greens
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 6
Spice Level: Mild
Dietary Information: Vegetarian
Rating: 3.6 (60 votes)
Views: 50,226
Description:
Indian Summer Greens is a delightful, vibrant vegetable dish that embodies the essence of Indian spices while keeping things light and fresh. Perfect for those who enjoy mildly spiced, vegetarian meals, this dish combines the richness of coconut, the warmth of cumin, and the tang of lemon with summer greens. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal while enjoying a comforting, yet zesty flavor profile. Whether served alongside rice or as a standalone dish, it is an excellent choice for a quick, nourishing meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1 tbsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Mustard seeds | ½ tsp |
| Green chillies, finely chopped | 4 |
| Root ginger (4 cm piece) | 1 piece |
| Turmeric | ½ tsp |
| Summer greens, shredded | 500g |
| Peas or blanched broad beans | 100g |
| Lemon | 1 |
| Coconut, grated | 2 tbsp |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp |
Instructions
- Prepare the spices: Begin by heating the butter in a large non-stick pan or wok over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the cumin and mustard seeds. Allow them to sizzle and become fragrant, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
- Add the aromatics: Stir in the finely chopped green chillies, grated ginger, and turmeric powder. Fry everything together for a further 1-2 minutes until the spices become aromatic and well-combined.
- Cook the greens: Add the shredded summer greens to the pan, followed by a pinch of salt and a splash of water. Stir in the peas or blanched broad beans. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the greens have wilted and softened.
- Finish the dish: Once the greens are tender, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the vegetables. Sprinkle in the garam masala and the grated coconut, then toss everything together to ensure an even coating of the spices and flavors.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the Indian Summer Greens hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy this flavorful and aromatic dish with your favorite rice or as a side dish.
Allergen Information
This dish contains dairy (butter) and coconut, so it is not suitable for individuals with allergies to these ingredients.
Dietary Preferences
This recipe is vegetarian and offers a mild level of spice. It is a great option for those following plant-based diets, or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter meal with a blend of wholesome ingredients.
Cooking Tips & Advice
- If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding extra green chillies or a pinch of red chilli powder to the dish.
- Feel free to substitute the summer greens with other leafy greens like spinach or kale if needed.
- You can experiment with the type of beans used in the dish. Broad beans can be substituted with other legumes such as chickpeas or even a mix of peas and beans to add texture and variety.
Conclusion
Indian Summer Greens is a beautifully balanced dish that brings together the freshness of summer vegetables and the bold, comforting flavors of Indian cuisine. The mild heat from the spices, combined with the sweetness of the coconut and the tanginess from lemon, make it a satisfying yet light meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a group, this recipe is sure to impress and add a touch of vibrant flavor to your table.
