Bombay Spinach. Recipe
Bombay Spinach Recipe
History and Fun Facts:
Bombay Spinach, also known as Bombay Aloo Palak, is a popular dish from the vibrant city of Mumbai in India. It showcases the beautiful combination of spinach (palak) with potatoes (aloo) in a flavorful spiced curry. The recipe has been passed down through generations and is beloved for its robust flavors and nutritious qualities.
Spinach holds a significant place in Indian cuisine and is commonly used in a variety of meals. It is rich in iron, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy addition to one's diet. The incorporation of potatoes adds a deliciously creamy texture to the dish, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.
The traditional method of preparing Bombay Spinach involves cooking the spinach and potatoes in a fragrant blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. The dish is usually served with roti (Indian bread) or rice, creating a well-rounded and filling meal.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 500 grams spinach leaves, washed and chopped
- 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 green chilies, chopped (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies, and cook for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the pan and mix well with the onion mixture. Cook for a few minutes until the potatoes start to soften slightly.
5. Sprinkle the turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, and salt over the potatoes. Stir everything together to evenly coat the potatoes with the aromatic spices.
6. Pour in the water and cover the pan with a lid. Let the potatoes cook for about 10 minutes or until they are almost tender.
7. Now, add the chopped spinach leaves to the pan, mixing them gently with the potatoes. Cover the pan again and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the spinach has wilted and cooked down.
8. Remove the lid and stir the curry mixture well, ensuring that the potatoes and spinach are fully combined.
9. Simmer the curry uncovered for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in a thick and creamy curry consistency.
10. Once cooked, remove the Bombay Spinach from heat and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
11. Bombay Spinach is traditionally served with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added tanginess. Serve it hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice for a wholesome and delicious meal.
Similar Recipe Dishes:
- Palak Paneer: A popular Indian dish where spinach is cooked with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a creamy tomato-based curry.
- Aloo Gobi: This dish combines potatoes and cauliflower, lightly sautéed with spices and herbs for a flavorful and comforting meal.
- Saag Chicken: A North Indian delicacy where chicken is simmered in a vibrant spinach-based curry, creating a nutritious and protein-packed dish.
Whether you're a fan of Indian cuisine or looking to expand your culinary horizons, Bombay Spinach is a delightful choice that will leave you satisfied with its vibrant flavors and healthy ingredients. Enjoy the aromatic spices and the comforting combination of spinach and potatoes in this traditional recipe from the bustling streets of Mumbai.
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