Bengali Spinach Recipe

Experience the rich flavors of Bengal with this authentic Spinach recipe, adapted from Yamuna Devi's "The Art of Indian Vegetarian Cooking." This vibrant dish combines tender spinach with fragrant spices and crunchy nuts for a truly unforgettable culinary journey. Perfect as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course.

Prep Time 245 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Calories 344.9 kcal
Protein 24g
Rating 5.0 (2 Reviews)
Bengali Spinach

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Bengali Spinach

  • Almonds
  • Warm Water
  • 2 tablespoons ghee
  • Black Mustard Seeds
  • Whole Cumin Seed
  • Fenugreek Seeds
  • Brown Sugar
  • 1 inch ginger, finely grated
  • Green Chili
  • Fresh Spinach
  • Shredded Coconut
  • Salt to taste
  • Water
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

How to Make Bengali Spinach

  1. Soak 1/2 cup mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, etc.) in warm water for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  2. Drain the nuts, rinse them well, and drain again.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a large pot over moderate heat.
  4. Once hot (but not smoking), add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and 1 teaspoon of sugar.
  5. Fry until the seeds darken and the sugar caramelizes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  6. Add 1 inch grated ginger, 2-3 finely chopped green chilies (adjust to taste), 1 pound chopped spinach, 1/4 cup shredded coconut, and salt to taste.
  7. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes.
  8. Uncover the pot, gently stir the spinach, ensuring even cooking.
  9. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water if needed to prevent sticking.
  10. Continue to cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  11. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg and cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
  12. Garnish with a lemon wedge and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Bengali Spinach!

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Want to unlock deeper, more complex flavors? Try toasting your whole spices before grinding them, or blooming ground spices in a little warm oil to enhance their aroma. Deglazing your pan with a bit of stock, wine, or even water after browning ingredients can capture those tasty caramelized bits, adding richness to your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

84 g

Sugar

42g

Fat

47g

Carbs

7g