Bangladeshi Pui Shak Bhaji with Garlic and Chili
A simple yet flavorful stir-fried Malabar spinach (Pui Shak) dish, a staple in Bengali households. The greens are quickly sautéed with garlic and dried red chilies, offering a healthy and delicious side dish that highlights the natural taste of the spinach.

🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Pui Shak (Malabar spinach), roughly chopped
- 6-8 Garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 2-3 Dried red chilies
- 2 tbsp Mustard oil
- 1/2 tsp Nigella seeds (Kalonji)
- to taste Salt
- 2-3 tbsp (optional) Water
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Wash the Pui Shak thoroughly and chop it roughly. Ensure the stems are tender enough to be cooked; if they are tough, discard them or chop them very finely.
💡 Tip: Malabar spinach wilts down significantly, so start with a generous amount. - 2
Heat mustard oil in a wok or a large pan over medium-high heat. Mustard oil imparts a distinct flavor to the dish.
💡 Tip: Ensure the oil is heated sufficiently before adding tempering ingredients. - 3
Add the nigella seeds and dried red chilies to the hot oil. Let them splutter and turn fragrant, about 30 seconds.
💡 Tip: Be careful not to burn the chilies. - 4
Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown and aromatic.
💡 Tip: Golden brown garlic adds a nutty flavor; avoid burning it. - 5
Add the chopped Pui Shak to the pan. Stir well to coat the greens with the flavored oil.
💡 Tip: Add the greens in batches if your pan is not large enough. - 6
Add salt to taste. If the spinach seems dry and you want it to cook faster, sprinkle 2-3 tablespoons of water. Cover the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and tender.
💡 Tip: Pui Shak releases its own water, so be cautious when adding extra liquid. - 7
Uncover and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes to allow any excess moisture to evaporate. The bhaji should be tender but not mushy.
💡 Tip: Overcooking will make the greens lose their vibrant color and nutrients. - 8
Serve hot as a side dish with rice and dal, or with roti.
💡 Tip: This dish is best enjoyed fresh.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓If Pui Shak is unavailable, other leafy greens like spinach or amaranth can be used, though the flavor will differ.
- ✓For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes along with the dried red chilies.
- ✓Ensure the garlic is sliced thinly for even cooking and flavor distribution.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a few chopped green chilies along with the garlic for extra heat.
- A small amount of finely chopped onion can be added after the garlic.
- For a richer flavor, a tablespoon of shrimp paste (chingri bata) can be added during the tempering stage.