Classic Sarson da Saag Recipe: A Taste of Authentic Punjabi Cuisine

The Sarson da Saag recipe is a traditional Punjabi favorite that highlights the rich, earthy flavors of mustard greens and a mix of other leafy vegetables. This comforting dish, known for its rustic taste, is best enjoyed with Makki di Roti (corn flatbread). An authentic Sarson da Saag recipe delivers a creamy, slightly bitter flavor profile, perfectly balanced with spices and enriched with a dollop of homemade ghee or butter. Let’s dive into preparing this classic dish and bring the true taste of Punjab straight to your table.

Why is it called “Sarson da Saag”?

The name “Sarson da Saag” translates to “mustard greens” in Punjabi. This dish is a staple in Punjabi cuisine, where “sarson” refers to mustard leaves, the key ingredient. Traditionally, farmers in Punjab prepared Sarson da Saag as a hearty winter meal to sustain them through the cold weather. The recipe represents the agricultural roots of Punjab and is cherished for its rustic simplicity. Passed down through generations, Sarson da Saag embodies the rich culture and heritage of Punjabi households.

How Should “Sarson da Saag” Taste?

Sarson da Saag should have an earthy, slightly bitter taste from the mustard greens, complemented by the mild sweetness of spinach and other greens. It is characterized by a creamy and coarse texture, as the greens are coarsely ground rather than finely pureed. The slow-cooked greens, paired with mild spices and tempered with a dollop of ghee, result in a delightful medley of rich and robust flavors. When paired with Makki di Roti, the taste experience is elevated to another level.

How to Make it Super Yummy or Perfect?

To achieve the perfect Sarson da Saag, use a combination of mustard greens, spinach, and bathua (goosefoot) for balanced flavor. Cooking the greens on a low flame for an extended period helps enhance the depth of flavor. A key tip is to blend the saag coarsely to maintain its authentic texture. Add a tadka (tempering) of ghee, garlic, and dried red chilies right before serving for an extra layer of aroma and flavor. Lastly, serve it piping hot with a generous dollop of homemade butter for that ultimate experience.

Sarson da Saag Recipe

Sarson da Saag is a traditional Punjabi dish that celebrates the rich flavors of mustard greens and other leafy vegetables. Known for its comforting and rustic taste, this dish is typically served with Makki di Roti (corn flatbread). This authentic recipe promises a creamy, earthy flavor with a hint of bitterness from mustard greens, balanced with spices and a dollop of homemade ghee or butter. Let’s explore how to prepare this timeless classic and bring the essence of Punjab to your kitchen.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 1 30

Total Time 1 50

Course Main Course

Cuisine Punjabi

Servings 4 servings

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

Large pot
blending spoon
Blender
Tempering pan

Ingredients

500g mustard greens (sarson)
250g spinach (palak)
150g bathua (goosefoot greens) (optional)
2 green chilies
2 inch ginger, grated
4-5 cloves of garlic
2 tablespoons corn flour (makki ka atta)
Salt to taste
3 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
2 dried red chilies

Instructions

Wash and Cook the Greens: Clean and chop the mustard greens, spinach, and bathua. In a large pot, add the greens, green chilies, and grated ginger with a little water. Cook on low heat until the greens are tender (around 45 minutes).
Blend the Greens: Once the greens are cooked, let them cool slightly. Coarsely blend them in a blender or mash with a spoon to retain the traditional texture.
Thicken the Saag: Return the blended greens to the pot. Add corn flour and mix well. Cook on low flame for another 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Prepare the Tadka: In a tempering pan, heat ghee. Add cumin seeds and dried red chilies, and let them splutter. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden brown.
Add the Tadka to Saag: Pour the prepared tadka over the saag. Stir well, cover, and let it rest for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
Serve Hot: Serve the Sarson da Saag with Makki di Roti and a dollop of butter for an authentic experience.

Notes

Adjust the spices according to your taste.
You can add other greens like fenugreek leaves (methi) for additional flavor.
Don’t over-blend the greens to maintain the authentic texture.

Conclusion

If you want to savor a piece of Punjab on your plate, then Sarson da Saag is the way to go. This traditional recipe is not just easy to prepare but also a wholesome and nutritious meal. The rustic flavors, combined with the aroma of ghee, make it a winter favorite. Try this recipe to enjoy an authentic taste of Punjabi cuisine and impress your loved ones with a comforting and flavorful dish.