How to Make Indian Soup with Mustard Greens
Indian soup with mustard greens, often referred to as 'Sarson da Saag', is a traditional dish that’s both nutritious and flavorful. This hearty soup is perfect for cold weather and pairs wonderfully with flatbreads or rice. Below is a simple recipe to prepare this delectable soup at home.
Ingredients
To make Indian soup with mustard greens, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups mustard greens (sarson), washed and roughly chopped
- 1 cup spinach leaves, washed and chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons mustard oil (or vegetable oil)
- Water as needed
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Indian mustard greens soup:
Step 1: Prepare the Greens
In a large pot, add the mustard greens and spinach along with enough water to cover them. Bring to a boil and cook until the greens are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain the excess water and blend the greens until you have a smooth paste. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Base
In another pot, heat the mustard oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Then, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomatoes
Add the minced ginger and garlic to the pot and cook for a minute until fragrant. Then, stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and slit green chilies. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to blend beautifully.
Next, add the pureed tomatoes and season with salt. Cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture, about 5-7 minutes. This step helps enhance the soup’s flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Now, add the blended greens to the tomato and onion mixture. Stir everything together and add water to reach your desired soup consistency. Allow it to simmer for 10-15 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together. You can adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot with a side of makki di roti (corn flatbread) or steamed rice for a complete meal.
Nutrition Benefits
Mustard greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, making this soup not just comforting but also packed with nutrients. The addition of spinach boosts the iron content, making it an excellent choice for those looking to improve their dietary intake.
Making Indian soup with mustard greens is a simple yet rewarding process that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Enjoy this authentic dish and savor the taste of Indian cuisine!