Sarson Da Saag Recipe – Authentic Punjabi Winter Special

August 15, 2025
Category: Curry Dishes

Sarson Da Saag Recipe – Authentic Punjabi Winter Special

When it comes to traditional Punjabi food, one dish that immediately captures the heart is the Sarson Da Saag Recipe. This winter delicacy, often paired with Makki Ki Roti, is not just a meal but a cultural experience that brings warmth and nutrition during the cold season. Made with mustard greens (sarson), spinach (palak), and bathua leaves, the authentic Punjabi Sarson Da Saag is a wholesome dish loaded with flavors, health benefits, and nostalgia of Punjabi villages.

About Sarson Da Saag

The Sarson Ka Saag Recipe is a staple in North India, especially Punjab and Haryana, during winters. The earthy aroma of sarson leaves, combined with the richness of ghee, garlic, and green chilies, creates an irresistible curry. Traditionally, this dish is slow-cooked in a clay pot, which enhances its rustic taste. Today, you can also prepare it using a pressure cooker or instant pot for convenience without compromising authenticity.

Whether you enjoy sarson da saag with makki ki roti, a dollop of homemade butter, or jaggery on the side, this dish is the epitome of comfort food.

Ingredients for Sarson Da Saag

To prepare the authentic sarson da saag, gather the following ingredients:

Mustard greens (sarson) – 2 cups
Spinach (palak) – 1 cup
Bathua leaves – 1 cup (optional, adds nutrition)
Green chilies – 2 to 3 (adjust to taste)
Ginger – 1 inch
Garlic – 4 cloves
Onion – 1 medium (optional, for dhaba style)
Tomatoes – 2 medium
Corn flour (makki ka atta) – 2 tbsp (for creamy texture)
Ghee or butter – 3 tbsp
Salt – to taste
Red chili powder – ½ tsp
Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp

How to Make Sarson Da Saag – Step by Step

Step 1: Clean and boil the greens

Wash the sarson leaves, spinach, and bathua thoroughly. Chop them and boil in 2 cups water with a pinch of salt and turmeric. Cook until soft.

Step 2: Mash the saag

Once boiled, mash the leaves using a hand blender or whisk until smooth. Add corn flour to thicken and simmer for 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the tadka (tempering)

Heat ghee in a pan. Add chopped garlic, ginger, onion, and sauté until golden. Add tomatoes, green chilies, and spices (red chili powder, salt). Cook till masala leaves ghee.

Step 4: Combine and simmer

Add the prepared greens (saag) into the masala. Simmer for 10–15 minutes until flavors blend well.

Step 5: Garnish and serve

Top with a spoonful of butter or ghee. Serve hot with makki ki roti and jaggery on the side.

Why Sarson Da Saag is Healthy

The Sarson Da Saag Healthy Recipe is rich in iron, vitamin A, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. It is also considered a low-calorie, gluten-free, and nutritious recipe that supports digestion, boosts immunity, and keeps the body warm during winters. The use of bathua and palak with sarson enhances its nutritional value, making it a fiber-rich and wholesome recipe.

Tips for Best Sarson Da Saag

For an authentic Punjabi sarson da saag, cook it slowly on low flame.
Use bathua and spinach along with mustard greens for balanced flavor.
Add corn flour (makki ka atta) to give a creamy, smooth texture.
Always serve with makki ki roti, white butter, and jaggery for the complete experience.
For a richer taste, prepare the tadka in desi ghee instead of oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve sarson da saag with makki ki roti and a dollop of butter.
Pair with lassi for an authentic Punjabi thali.
It also goes well with jeera rice or plain roti.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories – 210 kcal
Protein – 6g
Fat – 12g
Carbohydrates – 20g
Fiber – 5g
Vitamin A & Iron – High

FAQs about Sarson Da Saag

Q1: Can I make Sarson Da Saag without onion and garlic?
Yes, you can prepare a no onion no garlic sarson da saag for a sattvic version.

Q2: Can I make sarson da saag in an instant pot?
Yes, cook the greens in the instant pot and then add tadka for a quicker version.

Q3: Is Sarson Da Saag vegan?
Traditionally, it is made with ghee and butter, but you can replace them with oil for a vegan recipe.

Q4: Which leaves can I mix with sarson?
Along with sarson, you can add palak, bathua, and radish leaves for flavor and nutrition.

Interesting Facts

The Sarson Da Saag Recipe is more than just food—it’s a winter tradition, a celebration of harvest, and a true authentic Punjabi dish. Whether enjoyed at home or a dhaba, this sarson da saag with makki ki roti remains an all-time favorite. Try this delicious and healthy recipe this winter and savor the magic of Punjab on your plate!