Saag Gosht is a delicious North Indian and Pakistani dish combining tender meat (usually lamb or mutton) with flavorful leafy greens. This rich and aromatic curry is perfect for pairing with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Ingredients
For the Meat:
- 500 grams mutton or lamb (cut into medium pieces)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons oil
For the Saag (Greens):
- 4 cups spinach (palak), chopped
- 2 cups mustard greens (sarson), chopped
- 1 cup fenugreek leaves (methi, optional), chopped
- 2-3 green chilies
- 1/2 cup water
For the Curry:
- 2 medium onions, finely sliced
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon fenugreek seeds (methi dana)
- 1/4 cup yogurt (whisked)
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- A drizzle of ghee or butter (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Greens
- Wash the spinach, mustard greens, and fenugreek leaves thoroughly to remove dirt.
- Add the greens, green chilies, and 1/2 cup water to a pot. Cook on medium heat for 10-15 minutes until softened.
- Allow the greens to cool slightly and blend them into a coarse paste using a blender or immersion blender. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pressure cooker or heavy-bottomed pan.
- Add the mutton or lamb pieces along with turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the meat is browned.
- Add 1 cup of water, cover, and cook until the meat is tender. (Use a pressure cooker for faster cooking, about 15-20 minutes, or simmer in a pan for 40-50 minutes.)
Step 3: Prepare the Curry Base
- In another pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee.
- Add cumin seeds and fenugreek seeds. Sauté until aromatic.
- Add sliced onions and cook until golden brown.
- Stir in ginger and garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and the oil separates.
- Mix in coriander powder and garam masala.
Step 4: Combine and Cook
- Add the cooked meat along with its juices to the curry base. Stir well.
- Add the blended greens to the pan. Mix thoroughly.
- Stir in whisked yogurt and cook the mixture on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Adjust salt and spice levels to taste.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a drizzle of ghee or butter (if desired).
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Tips for Perfect Saag Gosht
- Tender Meat: Use good-quality mutton or lamb and cook until perfectly tender.
- Fresh Greens: Always use fresh greens for vibrant flavor and color.
- Consistency: Adjust the thickness of the curry by adding water or reducing it further based on your preference.
- Authentic Flavor: Mustard oil can be used for a more traditional taste.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
Saag Gosht is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the richness of meat with the goodness of leafy greens. It’s a must-try for fans of hearty curries and traditional South Asian cuisine!