Sai Bhaji

Velvety greens and lentils simmered with spiced bhuna masala and finished bright with lemon.

Sai Bhaji

Ingredients

  • 200 g Spinach
  • 20 g Dill
  • 120 g Split Chickpeas
  • 1 pcs Onion
  • 2 pcs Tomato
  • 1 tbsp Ginger Garlic Paste
  • 2 pcs Green Chili
  • 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
  • 0.5 tsp Turmeric Powder
  • 0.5 tsp Red Chili Powder
  • 2 tbsp Ghee
  • 2.25 tsp Salt
  • 700 ml Water
  • 1 pcs Lemon

Method

  1. Rinse {split_chickpeas} under cold water until the water runs clearer so they cook evenly and taste clean.
  2. Finely dice {onion} and {tomato}, roughly chop {spinach} and {dill}, and thinly slice {green_chili} so the greens soften quickly and the masala cooks evenly.
  3. In a medium pot over medium heat, combine {split_chickpeas}, most of {water}, and a pinch of {salt}. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower to a steady simmer and cook until the lentils are tender but not falling apart.
  4. Heat {ghee} in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add {cumin_seeds} and bloom until fragrant, then add {onion} with a pinch of {salt} and cook until deep golden brown. Stir in {ginger_garlic_paste}, {green_chili}, {turmeric_powder}, and {red_chili_powder} for a brief bloom, then add {tomato} and cook until jammy and the oil separates.
  5. Add {spinach} and {dill} to the {bhuna_masala} base, seasoning with more {salt}. Cook over medium heat until wilted, then fold in the cooked {split_chickpeas} with their liquid. Simmer gently until the greens break down and the stew turns thick and velvety.
  6. Mash part of the {spinach} and {split_chickpeas} against the side of the pot for body, then taste and adjust {salt}. Off the heat, squeeze in {lemon} to brighten the earthy greens and serve hot.