By Ujjainee Roy
May 27, 2024
If you're bored of plain old saag recipes, consider making some interesting additions to your homemade saag recipes this season. There are many easy ways to make your saag recipes more scrumptious. Let's explore some easy ways.
Instead of just using spinach, mix in other greens like mustard greens (sarson), fenugreek leaves (methi), collard greens, or kale. This combination adds depth and complexity to the flavor.
Add whole spices like cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and bay leaves while sautéing the onions and garlic. Enhance the flavor with ground spices such as garam masala, coriander powder, and a pinch of asafoetida.
Allow the greens to simmer gently for a longer period. This slow cooking method helps the flavors to meld together beautifully and the greens to become tender and flavorful.
Finish the dish with fresh herbs like cilantro or a small amount of dill. This adds a fresh, bright flavor that contrasts nicely with the cooked greens.
Incorporate a smoky flavor by adding smoked paprika or by tempering (tadka) with a bit of ghee and smoked chili powder. Alternatively, you can char a small piece of charcoal, place it in a small bowl, and put the bowl in the pot of saag. Cover the pot for a few minutes to infuse a smoky aroma.
Blend part of the cooked saag to create a smoother texture and stir in a bit of cream, yogurt, or cashew paste to add richness and creaminess.
Finish the saag with a tempering (tadka) of finely chopped garlic, dried red chilies, and cumin seeds sizzled in hot ghee or oil. This final step adds an extra layer of flavor and aroma just before serving.