Sarson Da Saag and Makki Di Roti is a classic Punjabi meal that combines mustard greens curry with cornmeal flatbreads. A step-by-step guide on how to make this traditional dish:
For Sarson Da Saag:
Ingredients:
- 500 grams mustard greens (sarson)
- 250 grams spinach
- 2-3 green chilies, chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1-2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup maize flour (cornmeal)
- 1/2 cup water
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons ghee or clarified butter
- Red chili powder (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh butter for garnish
Instructions:
1. Clean and Chop Greens:
- Clean and chop the mustard greens and spinach finely.
2. Blanch the Greens:
- Boil the greens in a large pot of water for 10-15 minutes until they become tender. Drain and let them cool.
3. Make a Paste:
- Blend the blanched greens along with green chilies, ginger, and garlic to make a coarse paste.
4. Prepare the Maize Flour Slurry:
- In a separate bowl, mix maize flour (cornmeal) with water to create a slurry. Ensure there are no lumps.
5. Cook the Greens:
- Heat ghee in a pan and add finely chopped onions. Sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the coarse green paste and cook for a few minutes.
- Stir in the maize flour slurry and continue cooking, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and the maize flour is cooked through.
- Season with salt and red chili powder (if desired) and cook for a few more minutes.
6. Serve:
- Serve the Sarson Da Saag hot, garnished with fresh butter.
For Makki Di Roti:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups maize flour (cornmeal)
- Warm water for kneading
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Place the maize flour in a bowl. Gradually add warm water and knead the dough until it's soft and pliable. The dough should not be too dry or too wet.
2. Shape the Rotis:
- Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into balls.
- Place a ball of dough on a clean, flat surface and gently flatten it with your fingers to form a disc.
- Using your palms, press and shape the dough into a flat, round roti. Make sure the roti is not too thick.
3. Cook the Rotis:
- Heat a tava (griddle) or a flat pan over medium-high heat.
- Place the shaped roti on the hot tava. Cook until it turns golden brown on both sides. You can use a little ghee or oil if desired.
4. Serve:
- Serve the hot and crispy Makki Di Roti with Sarson Da Saag and a dollop of fresh butter.
Sarson Da Saag and Makki Di Roti is a beloved Punjabi meal that's especially popular during the winter months. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish!