Saag Aloo – Spinach with Potatoes and Indian Spices
This delightful vegetarian dish brings together the earthy flavors of spinach and potatoes, infused with aromatic Indian spices. A popular side dish in Indian cuisine, Saag Aloo is not only flavorful but also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special vegetarian feast. The dish offers a pleasant heat thanks to the green chilies and garam masala, but you can adjust the spice level to suit your preferences. The recipe is a lovely combination of textures, with tender potatoes and wilted spinach creating a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Preparation Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Serves: 4
- Dietary Information: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mustard oil | 1 tbsp | For authentic flavor and tempering spices |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tsp | Adds a nutty and slightly bitter flavor |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp | Earthy and warming spice |
| Asafoetida | Pinch | Adds a unique savory depth |
| Garlic cloves | 2, sliced | Aromatic and flavor booster |
| Ginger | 1 tbsp, thinly sliced | Fresh and pungent |
| Tomatoes | 2, chopped | Adds acidity and balance |
| Baby spinach | 600g, finely sliced | Fresh, nutrient-rich greens |
| Potatoes | 4, peeled and cubed into 3cm pieces | Use floury varieties like Maris Pipers |
| Salt | 1 tsp, or to taste | Enhances the flavors |
| Green chilies | 1 or 2, finely sliced | For heat, adjust to taste |
| Garam masala | 1 tsp | A warming blend of Indian spices |
Instructions
-
Heat the Mustard Oil
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of mustard oil in a karahi or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the mustard seeds and wait for them to start popping. This releases their nutty aroma. Immediately follow with the cumin seeds and a pinch of asafoetida. -
Sauté the Garlic and Ginger
Add the sliced garlic and ginger to the pan, allowing them to fry gently. Stir them occasionally to prevent burning, and cook for a few minutes until they turn golden and aromatic. -
Cook the Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, sliced green chilies, and salt. Cook on medium heat until the tomatoes soften and break down into a rich, fragrant pulp. This step forms the base of your Saag Aloo sauce. -
Add Potatoes
Gently fold in the peeled and cubed potatoes, ensuring they are well-coated with the tomato mixture. Be gentle to avoid mashing the potatoes, as we want them to retain their shape. Lower the heat, cover the pan with a lid, and allow the potatoes to cook for about 10 minutes.- Tip: Stir the potatoes occasionally, and if you notice they are sticking to the pan, add a splash of water to prevent burning.
-
Cook Until Potatoes Are Tender
Continue cooking the potatoes until they become soft but not mushy. Depending on the type of potatoes used, cooking times may vary slightly. Floury potatoes like Maris Pipers tend to soften more quickly than waxy varieties. -
Add Spinach
Once the potatoes are tender, add the finely sliced baby spinach to the pan. Stir gently and cook for a few more minutes until the spinach wilts down completely. If there’s excess liquid in the pan at this stage, increase the heat to dry the dish out. -
Finish with Garam Masala
Sprinkle the garam masala over the dish just before serving, allowing its warm and aromatic spices to enhance the overall flavor of the Saag Aloo. Stir gently and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Saag Aloo pairs beautifully with naan bread, parathas, or chapatis, allowing you to scoop up the delicious spinach and potato mixture. It’s also a fantastic side dish for any Indian curry or can be served with steamed basmati rice for a complete vegetarian meal. For a lighter meal, consider serving it alongside a yogurt-based raita to balance the heat from the spices.
This easy, flavorful Saag Aloo recipe is perfect for when you’re looking for a vegetarian dish that’s not only healthy but also packed with bold, warming spices. The tender potatoes and fresh spinach, combined with the fragrant spices, create a comforting meal that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
