Sai Bhaji is a traditional Sindhi curry made with spinach, mustard greens, and other vegetables, seasoned with a mix of spices. A step-by-step guide on how to make Sindhi Sai Bhaji:
Ingredients:
For Sai Bhaji:
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mustard greens (sarson), chopped
- 1/2 cup split green gram (moong dal)
- 1/4 cup split red gram (masoor dal)
- 1/4 cup chopped bottle gourd (lauki)
- 1/4 cup chopped drumsticks (saijan ki phalli)
- 1/4 cup chopped tomato
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped brinjal (eggplant)
- 1/4 cup chopped okra (bhindi)
- 1/4 cup chopped spinach stems
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
For Seasoning (Tadka):
- 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
- A pinch of asafoetida (hing)
- 1-2 dried red chilies
- 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sai Bhaji:
Dal and Vegetables Step:
- Wash the split green gram and split red gram thoroughly. Combine them in a pressure cooker along with all the chopped vegetables, chopped tomato, green chilies, grated ginger, turmeric powder, and salt.
Pressure Cook Step:
- Add 1 cup of water to the cooker and pressure cook the mixture for about 2-3 whistles, or until the dals and vegetables are soft and cooked.
Mash and Mix Step:
- Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and mash the cooked ingredients. Mix them thoroughly to create a homogenous mixture.
2. Prepare the Seasoning (Tadka):
Roasting Spices Step:
- In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, asafoetida (hing), dried red chilies, fenugreek seeds, coriander seeds, fennel seeds, and cumin seeds. Roast them until they release a fragrant aroma.
3. Combine and Serve:
Tadka Addition Step:
- Pour the seasoned ghee and spice mixture into the mashed Sai Bhaji. Mix well.
4. Serve:
- Serve the Sindhi Sai Bhaji hot with rice or roti. It is often garnished with chopped coriander leaves.
Sindhi Sai Bhaji is a nutritious and flavorful dish that combines the goodness of greens and lentils with a spice-infused tadka. Enjoy your homemade Sai Bhaji with the accompaniment of your choice.