Authentic Sindhi Sai Bhaji Recipe | Healthy Spinach and Lentil Curry

Sai Bhaji is one of the most beloved dishes from Sindhi cuisine. The word "Sai" means green and "Bhaji" means vegetables. This wholesome one-pot meal combines fresh leafy greens, lentils, and a variety of vegetables into a nutritious and delicious dish.

Ever since I started making this Sai Bhaji at home, it has become a family favorite. Even my husband, who is usually a picky eater, asks for it almost every week! Packed with the goodness of spinach, lentils, and vegetables, this recipe is proof that healthy food can be incredibly tasty.

The best part is its versatility. You can customize the vegetables based on what you have in your refrigerator, making it an excellent recipe for using up leftover vegetables. Traditionally, Sai Bhaji is served with steamed rice, but it also tastes wonderful with roti, paratha, dosa, or even plain bread.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

✔ Rich in protein and fiber
✔ Loaded with vitamins and minerals
✔ One-pot healthy meal
✔ Kid-friendly and family-friendly
✔ Perfect for meal prep
✔ Naturally vegetarian and nutritious

Preparation Time

20 minutes

Cooking Time

20 minutes

Serves

4

Ingredients

To Be Pressure Cooked

• 2 cups finely chopped spinach (palak)
• ¾ cup chana dal, soaked for 2 hours
• 4 tsp finely chopped onions
• ½ cup finely chopped tomatoes
• 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
• ½ cup finely chopped carrot
• ½ cup finely chopped beans
• ¾ cup cauliflower florets
• ½ cup finely chopped radish
• 1 tsp garam masala (optional)
• Salt to taste
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 cup water

For Tempering

• 3 tsp oil
• ½ tsp mustard seeds (rai)
• ½ tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
• 6–7 curry leaves
• 2–3 dried red chillies, broken
• 4–5 garlic cloves, crushed

Method

1. Combine all the ingredients listed under "To Be Pressure Cooked" in a pressure cooker.
2. Add water and cook for 2 whistles.
3. Allow the pressure to release naturally.
4. Lightly mash the cooked mixture to achieve a thick consistency.
5. Heat oil in a small pan.
6. Add mustard seeds and cumin seeds.
7. Once they splutter, add curry leaves, red chillies, and crushed garlic.
8. Sauté until fragrant.
9. Pour the tempering over the cooked Sai Bhaji and mix well.
10. Serve hot with steamed rice, roti, paratha, or dosa.

Serving Suggestions

• Steamed rice
• Phulka or chapati
• Paratha
• Dosa
• Multigrain roti

Enjoy this comforting bowl of Sindhi goodness with your family!