Sautéed Potatoes with Spinach – A Flavorful North Indian Delight
Sautéed Potatoes with Spinach (आलू पालक की सब्ज़ी) is a classic North Indian vegetarian dish that combines the earthy flavors of spinach with the comforting taste of boiled potatoes. It’s a simple yet nutritious recipe, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This dish is packed with spices and cooked to perfection, making it a family favorite. The recipe takes just under an hour to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a wholesome meal.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Potatoes (boiled, chopped) | 3 medium-sized |
| Spinach (washed, chopped) | 500 grams |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 large |
| Ginger (small pieces) | 1 small piece |
| Tomatoes (finely chopped) | 2 medium-sized |
| Turmeric powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cumin seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Oil | As needed |
| Salt | As per taste |
Preparation Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 40 minutes
Total Time:
- 50 minutes
Servings:
- 4 servings
Cuisine:
- North Indian
Course:
- Lunch/Dinner
Diet:
- Vegetarian
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Spinach
Start by cooking the spinach separately. In a large pan or wok, heat some oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped spinach along with a pinch of salt. Cook the spinach on medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until it wilts and releases its water. To avoid excess water, cook the spinach on high heat, allowing the water to evaporate. Once the spinach is fully cooked and dry, remove the pan from the heat and set the spinach aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Spices and Onion
In the same pan, heat a little more oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds. Then, add the finely chopped ginger and onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes golden brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This process will bring out the sweet and savory flavors of the onion.
Step 3: Add the Boiled Potatoes
Once the onion is golden brown, add the boiled and chopped potatoes to the pan. Sprinkle salt to taste and cook for 2 to 4 minutes, stirring gently to ensure the potatoes get a little crispy on the outside. The combination of potatoes and onions creates a savory base for the dish.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices
After 2-4 minutes, add the chopped tomatoes to the pan along with the turmeric powder, red chili powder, cinnamon powder, garam masala powder, and additional salt if needed. Mix all the ingredients well and let them cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, until the tomatoes soften and the spices are well incorporated into the potatoes.
Step 5: Combine the Spinach with the Potato Mixture
Once the tomatoes have cooked down, add the cooked spinach to the pan. Stir everything together so the spinach blends well with the potato and spices. Cover the pan with a lid and let the mixture cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together and ensure the spinach is heated through.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Once the dish is cooked, take it off the heat. Transfer the sautéed potatoes with spinach to a serving bowl and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with warm chapatis, rice, or even parathas.
Tips for the Perfect Sautéed Potatoes with Spinach:
- Adjust the Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of red chili powder according to your spice tolerance. You can even use mild green chilies for a different flavor.
- Make it More Flavorful: If you prefer a richer taste, you can add a dollop of ghee towards the end of the cooking process.
- Add More Vegetables: For extra nutrition, you can toss in other vegetables like carrots or peas to this dish.
- Keep the Spinach Dry: Be sure to cook the spinach on high heat to reduce excess moisture, so the dish doesn’t become watery.
This Sautéed Potatoes with Spinach (आलू पालक की सब्ज़ी) recipe is a great way to incorporate healthy greens into your diet while enjoying a fulfilling meal. Whether you’re looking for a simple weekday meal or something to serve to guests, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the rich flavors and vibrant colors of this classic North Indian recipe!
