Gingered spinach

4 servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
2tablespoonsVegetable oil
1teaspoonMustard seeds
¼teaspoonCumin seeds
¼teaspoonTurmeric
½teaspoonGaram masala
1mediumOnion(s), thinly sliced
1tablespoonGinger, finely chopped
3largesGarlic clove(s) thinly sliced
1medium(to 2) jalape¤o chiles halved lengthwise thinly sliced crosswise
1poundsSpinach tough stems trimmed
1tablespoonButter
4mediumsTomatoes, peeled coarsely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
¼cupCilantro leaves
Lemon wedges for serving

Directions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan. Stir in the mustard and cumin seeds and cook over moderately high heat, stirring, for 1 minute. Add the turmeric and the garam masala and cook for 1 minute more. Add the onion and ginger and cook, stirring, until the onion is softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and jalape¤o and continue cooking until fragrant, about 2 minutes more.

2. Add the spinach to the pan in large handfuls, stirring until wilted before adding another handful. Cook, stirring, until the exuded liquid has evaporated, about 2 minutes. Stir in the butter until melted, then add the tomatoes. Lower the heat to moderate and simmer, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Keep warm. Serve alongside Green Pea Cakes garnished with cilantro and lemon wedges.

Food and Wine September 1995

Submitted By DIANE LAZARUS On 09-29-95