Sarso ka saag paneer wala

Introduction

Sarso ka saag paneer Wala is a delicious and wholesome dish that blends the richness of mustard greens with the creamy texture of paneer. This North Indian delicacy is a favorite during winter, offering warmth, flavor, and nutrition. Paired with Makki ki roti, it makes for a complete meal loved by people of all ages. Let’s explore how to make this delightful dish and its nutritional benefits.

What is Sarso Ka Saag Paneer Wala?

Sarso ka saag paneer wala is a variation of the traditional mustard greens curry. By adding paneer, this dish becomes more filling and protein-rich. The saag is made from mustard greens (sarson) combined with other leafy greens like spinach (palak) and fenugreek (methi). Paneer cubes are either added directly or lightly fried for extra flavor.

Ingredients for Sarso Ka Saag Paneer Wala

• For the Saag:
  • Mustard greens (sarson) – 500g
  • Spinach (palak) – 200g
  • Fenugreek leaves (methi) – 100g
  • Green chilies – 2
  • Garlic – 4 cloves
  • Ginger – 1-inch piece
  • Maize flour (makki ka atta) – 2 tbsp
  • Salt – to taste
• For the Paneer Addition:
  • Paneer – 200g (cut into cubes)
  • Ghee or butter – 2 tbsp
  • Cumin seeds (jeera) – 1 tsp
  • Onion – 1 (optional, finely chopped)
  • Tomato puree – 1 cup

Step-by-Step Recipe for Sarso Ka Saag Paneer Wala

1. Prepare the Greens:

• Wash mustard greens, spinach, and fenugreek leaves thoroughly.
• Boil them with green chilies, garlic, and ginger in 1 cup of water until soft.
• Once cooled, blend the mixture into a coarse paste.

2. Cook the Saag:

• Heat 1 tbsp of ghee in a pan and add the blended greens.
• Mix maize flour with a little water to make a paste and add it to the saag.
• Cook for 15-20 minutes on low flame, stirring occasionally.

3. Prepare the Paneer:

• Heat 1 tbsp of ghee in another pan.
• Fry the paneer cubes lightly and keep them aside.
• In the same pan, add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
• Add chopped onions (if using) and sauté until golden brown.
• Stir in tomato puree and cook until the oil separates.

4. Combine Saag and Paneer:

• Add the prepared saag to the paneer-tomato mixture.
• Mix well and cook for another 5 minutes.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Garnish with a dollop of butter and serve hot with makki ki roti.

Nutritional Benefits of Sarso Ka Saag Paneer Wala

1. High in Vitamins and Minerals

• Mustard greens are rich in Vitamin A, C, and K, essential for boosting immunity, maintaining skin health, and promoting blood clotting.

2. Protein Boost with Paneer

• Paneer adds protein, making this dish ideal for vegetarians looking to meet their protein needs.

3. Good for Digestion

• The fiber in greens and maize flour aids digestion and helps maintain gut health.

4. Rich in Antioxidants

• Spinach and mustard greens contain antioxidants that fight free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

5. Low in Calories

• Despite being flavorful, this dish is relatively low in calories, making it a healthy option for weight watchers.

Tips for Making Perfect Sarso Ka Saag Paneer Wala

1. Use fresh greens for the best flavor.
2. Avoid over-blending the greens to retain their texture.
3. For a smoky flavor, temper the dish with a charcoal-infused ghee before serving.
4. Adjust the spice level by adding more green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder.
5. Serve with a side of jaggery and fresh white butter for an authentic Punjabi touch.

The Perfect Texture and Flavor

Getting the right texture for sarso ka saag paneer wala requires attention to detail. The greens should be blended coarsely to retain their natural texture. Over-blending can make the saag lose its authenticity. Adding maize flour not only thickens the saag but also gives it a unique earthy flavor. The addition of lightly fried paneer cubes enhances the creaminess, creating a dish that is both comforting and luxurious.

Serving Suggestions

Sarso ka saag paneer wala tastes best when served hot with:

• Makki Ki Roti: Add a dollop of white butter on top for an authentic Punjabi experience.
• Steamed Rice: For a lighter option, pair it with steamed basmati rice.
• Side Condiments: Serve with freshly chopped onions, green chilies, and pickles to elevate the flavor.
• Jaggery and Lassi: Complement the dish with a small portion of jaggery and a glass of buttermilk or sweet lassi.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Health Benefits of Eating Sarso Ka Saag Paneer Wala

1. Strengthens Immunity:
   The high content of Vitamin C and antioxidants helps in boosting the immune system, making it a must-have during winters.
2. Promotes Heart Health:
   Mustard greens contain compounds that reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
3. Supports Weight Management:
   The fiber in this dish keeps you full for longer, reducing the chances of overeating.
4. Improves Skin Health:
   The vitamins and minerals present in the greens and paneer help maintain glowing, healthy skin.

Why Choose Homemade Sarso Ka Saag Paneer Wala?

Homemade sarso ka saag paneer wala is far superior to store-bought versions for several reasons:

1. Fresh Ingredients: You control the quality of the greens, paneer, and spices.
2. No Preservatives: Homemade food is free from artificial preservatives and additives.
3. Customizable Taste: You can adjust the spice, texture, and fat content to suit your preferences.
4. Affordable: Preparing it at home is cost-effective, especially during the winter season when greens are widely available.