Saag Aloo
A classic Indian vegetarian side dish featuring tender cubes of potato simmered in a vibrant, spiced spinach sauce. Simple to prepare and full of flavor.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Potatoes
- 500 g Fresh Spinach
- 1 Large Onion
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 1 inch Fresh Ginger
- 1-2 Green Chilies
- 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
- 1/2 tsp Ground Turmeric
- 1 tsp Garam Masala
- 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil or Ghee
- to taste Salt
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are just fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain well and set aside. This par-boiling step ensures the potatoes cook through in the sauce without becoming mushy.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 2
Prepare the spinach: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the washed spinach and blanch for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Immediately drain the spinach and plunge it into ice-cold water to preserve its vibrant green color. Squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Transfer the blanched spinach to a blender or food processor and blend into a smooth puree. Set aside.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 3
Sauté aromatics and bloom spices: Heat the vegetable oil or ghee in a large skillet or pot over medium heat (approx. 180°C / 350°F). Once the oil is shimmering, add the cumin seeds. Let them sizzle and turn golden brown, about 30 seconds, releasing their aroma. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies. Cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Add dry spices and cook the sauce: Stir in the ground turmeric and garam masala. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. This blooming process enhances their flavor. Pour in the spinach puree and stir well to combine with the onion mixture. Season with salt to taste.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Combine and finish cooking: Add the par-boiled potato cubes to the skillet with the spinach sauce. Stir gently to coat the potatoes evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fully tender and have absorbed the flavors of the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 6
Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot as a delicious side dish with roti, naan, rice, or other Indian main courses.
⏱️ 1 minute
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, use ghee instead of vegetable oil.
- ✓Ensure potatoes are par-boiled to the correct tenderness; overcooked potatoes will break apart in the sauce.
- ✓Don't overcook the spinach during blanching, as it can lose its vibrant color and nutrients.
- ✓Adjust the amount of green chilies to control the heat level.
- ✓A small pinch of sugar can balance the flavors if the spinach is slightly bitter.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add cubed paneer (Indian cottage cheese) along with the potatoes for a protein boost.
- Substitute mustard greens or a mix of greens for spinach for a different flavor profile.
- For a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.