Makki di Roti and Sarson da Saag is a classic Punjabi combination. Winter is the perfect season for this recipe. The Punjabis like to serve this dish with a side of jaggery and pickle. Also, they like to complement this flavor with a glass of lassi.
Makki di Roti Sarson da Saag| Punjabi Taste
4
servings30
minutes1
hourSarson da Saag and Makki di Roti is an iconic dish deeply rooted in the cultural and historical heritage of Punjab. With its origins dating back centuries, this traditional Punjabi delicacy holds immense significance in the region’s culinary traditions.
Punjab, known as the land of five rivers, has a rich agricultural heritage, and this dish reflects the close connection between the people and the land. The mustard greens (sarson) used in the saag are abundantly grown in the fertile fields of Punjab, and their pungent flavor and vibrant green color are a testament to the region’s agricultural abundance.
Makki di Roti, made from maize flour, is a staple food in Punjab. It represents the resilience and resourcefulness of the Punjabi people, who have long relied on maize as a key crop. The roti is rolled out by hand, showcasing the craftsmanship and skill passed down through generations.
Apart from its cultural significance, Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti also offers health benefits. Mustard greens are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while maize flour is a good source of dietary fiber. The combination of these ingredients creates a nutritious and wholesome dish that is both delicious and nourishing.
This dish is often enjoyed during the winter season when mustard greens are at their peak. It brings warmth and comfort, providing a sense of connection to the land and the community. Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti is a testament to the rich cultural heritage, culinary traditions, and healthy ingredients that define Punjabi cuisine.
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Ingredients
Mustard Greens (Sarson): 500 grams
Spinach (Palak): 250 grams
Bathua Leaves: 250 grams (optional)
Maize Flour (Makki ka Atta): 1 cup
Water: As needed
Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced
Green Chilies: 2-3, finely chopped
Ghee (Clarified Butter): 2 tablespoons
Salt: To taste
Red Chili Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
Turmeric Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
Garam Masala: 1/2 teaspoon
Directions
- Wash the mustard greens, spinach, and bathua leaves thoroughly. Chop them finely.
- Boil the greens in a large pot of water until tender. Drain the water and let them cool.
- Blend the greens into a coarse paste using a blender or food processor.
- Heat ghee in a pan and add chopped onions. Sauté until golden brown.
- Add grated ginger, minced garlic, and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
- Add the green paste to the pan and mix well.
- Stir in salt, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala. Cook for 10-15 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, knead the maize flour with water to make a dough for the roti.
- Divide the dough into small balls and roll them into flatbread (roti) using a rolling pin.
- Cook the roti on a hot griddle (tawa) until golden brown spots appear on both sides.
- Serve hot Sarson da Saag with Makki di Roti, along with a dollop of butter or ghee on top.
Quick Notes
- Blanch the greens: To retain their vibrant green color, blanch the mustard greens, spinach, and bathua leaves in boiling water for a few minutes before blending them.
- Coarse paste: Blend the greens into a coarse paste to give the dish a traditional texture and rustic appeal.
- Flavorful tempering: Sauté the onions, ginger, garlic, and green chilies until golden and aromatic to enhance the flavors of the saag.
- Slow cooking: Allow the saag to simmer on low heat for a while to let the flavors meld together and develop a rich taste.
- Serve with ghee: Top the Sarson da Saag with a generous drizzle of ghee or clarified butter to enhance its richness and taste.
- Freshly rolled roti: Roll out the Makki di Roti just before cooking to ensure a soft and flavorful flatbread.
- Cook on low heat: Cook the roti on a low flame to ensure even cooking and a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Butter or ghee on top: Serve the hot roti with a dollop of butter or ghee for an added layer of richness and flavor.
- Pair with traditional sides: Serve the dish with jaggery, pickle, and a refreshing glass of lassi to complement its flavors.
- Enjoy seasonal produce: Make this dish during the winter season when mustard greens are at their peak freshness and flavor.
- These tips will help you create an authentic and delicious Punjabi Sarson da Saag and Makki di Roti experience. Enjoy the flavors of Punjab!