Makke Di Roti and Sarson Da Saag

A quintessential Punjabi dish, Makke Di Roti and Sarson Da Saag is the ultimate winter comfort food. The earthy flavors of mustard greens (sarson) cooked with a medley of spices, paired with the rustic charm of cornmeal flatbreads (makke di roti), make this a soul-satisfying meal. Topped with a dollop of white butter and served with jaggery on the side, this recipe celebrates the warmth and richness of Punjabi cuisine.

Ingredients

For Sarson Da Saag

• Mustard Greens (Sarson): 500 g
• Spinach (Palak): 250 g
• Bathua (Chenopodium): 100 g (optional)
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic Cloves: 4–5, minced
• Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
• Green Chilies: 2–3, chopped
• Maize Flour (Makke Ka Atta): 2 tbsp
• Ghee or Mustard Oil: 2 tbsp
• Salt: To taste
• Red Chili Powder: 1/2 tsp
• Water: As needed
• Salt: A pinch
• Ghee or Butter: For serving

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
20 minutes	40 minutes	1 hour	4 servings

Instructions

For Sarson Da Saag

1. Clean the greens: Wash mustard greens, spinach, and bathua thoroughly. Chop them coarsely.
2. Cook the greens: In a large pot, add the chopped greens, a little water, and salt. Cover and cook on low heat for 20–25 minutes until soft.
3. Blend the greens: Mash the cooked greens using a wooden masher (or blend coarsely in a mixer for a smooth texture).
4. Prepare the tempering: Heat ghee or mustard oil in a pan. Add onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté until golden.
5. Combine: Add the mashed greens to the pan and mix well. Stir in maize flour to thicken the saag. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning with red chili powder and salt.

For Makke Di Roti

1. Knead the dough: In a bowl, combine maize flour, salt, and enough warm water to make a soft dough. Rest it for 10 minutes.
2. Roll the rotis: Take a small portion of dough, roll it into a ball, and flatten it gently between your palms. Use a rolling pin if needed, but handle carefully to avoid breaking.
3. Cook the rotis: Heat a tawa (griddle) and cook the roti on medium heat until golden brown on both sides. Smear with ghee or butter.

Tips for the Perfect Makke Di Roti and Sarson Da Saag

• Use fresh and tender mustard greens for the best flavor.
• Add a small amount of spinach and bathua to balance the bitterness of mustard greens.
• Handle the maize flour dough gently; it tends to be crumbly.
• Always serve with white butter or homemade ghee for an authentic taste.

Health Benefits of Makke Di Roti and Sarson Ka Saag

Makke Di Roti Te Sarson Ka Saag is not just a flavorful winter meal but also a nutritional powerhouse. Here are some health benefits of this classic Punjabi dish:

Health Benefits of Makke Di Roti

1. Rich in Fiber
   • Made from maize flour, Makke Di Roti is high in dietary fiber, which promotes better digestion and prevents constipation.
2. Gluten-Free
   • Since maize flour is naturally gluten-free, it’s an excellent option for people with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
3. Packed with Energy
   • Maize is a good source of complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy without causing blood sugar spikes.
4. Rich in Essential Nutrients
   • Contains B vitamins like niacin and folate, which are essential for energy production and cell function.
5. Low in Fat
   • Maize flour is naturally low in fat, making it a healthy option for weight management when paired with nutrient-rich accompaniments like saag.

Health Benefits of Sarson Da Saag

1. Rich in Antioxidants
   • Mustard greens are packed with antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene, which help fight free radicals and boost immunity.
2. High in Iron and Calcium
   • Sarson ka Saag is an excellent source of iron, supporting red blood cell production, and calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth.
3. Heart-Healthy
   • The greens in saag are low in cholesterol and high in potassium, helping regulate blood pressure and support heart health.
4. Aids Digestion
   • The fiber content in mustard greens and other saag ingredients promotes healthy digestion and prevents bloating.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
   • The presence of phytonutrients and omega-3 fatty acids in mustard greens helps reduce inflammation in the body.
6. Low in Calories
   • Despite being rich in nutrients, saag is low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Why Makke Di Roti and Sarson Ka Saag is a Perfect Pair

• The soluble fiber in maize flour complements the high iron and antioxidants in saag, making it a balanced meal.
• The healthy fats from ghee or butter enhance the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) present in the greens.
• This combination provides long-lasting energy, boosts immunity, and supports overall health during cold winter months.

Incorporating Makke Di Roti and Sarson Ka Saag into your winter diet is a delicious way to stay healthy while enjoying a traditional Indian meal!

Conclusion

There’s nothing more satisfying than a plate of Makke Di Roti and Sarson Da Saag on a cold winter day. This classic Punjabi dish is a celebration of rustic flavors, rich textures, and pure comfort. Serve it with jaggery, pickle, or a glass of lassi for the ultimate desi experience. Try this recipe, and bring the taste of Punjab to your kitchen!