Creamy Spinach Feta in Indian Sauce

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €7.28 · €1.82/serving

• cup plus 2 tablespoons ghee or olive oil, dividedEst. price €1.80–€3.50
• 2 tablespoons coriander seedsEst. price €0.20–€0.50
• 2 green cardamom pods, or teaspoon ground cardamom (freshly ground is best)Est. price €0.05–€0.15
• 1 small yellow onion, diced into -inch piecesEst. price €0.20–€0.45
• 1 tablespoon roughly chopped fresh gingerEst. price €0.15–€0.30
• 1 garlic clove, mincedEst. price €0.05–€0.12
• 1 pound fresh baby spinach (10 to 12 cups)Est. price €2.50–€4.50
• tablespoon fresh lime juice (from about a quarter of a lime), plus more if neededEst. price €0.10–€0.25
• 1 small Indian green chile or serrano chile, roughly choppedEst. price €0.08–€0.20
• 1 teaspoon kosher saltEst. price €0.02–€0.06

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by heating ¼ cup of ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Once the ghee has melted and is hot, introduce the coriander and cardamom into the pan. Stir and cook them for approximately 2 minutes until they develop a light brown color. Incorporate the onion next, cooking it until it turns translucent, which should take about 5 to 6 minutes. Proceed by adding the ginger and garlic, allowing them to cook for an additional minute. Finally, add the spinach to the pan and cook until it wilts slightly, which should take around 4 to 5 minutes.

2. 2

   After removing the pan from the heat, incorporate lime juice, green chile, and salt. Allow it to cool for 5 minutes before transferring it to a blender and pulsing until you achieve a chunky paste consistency. Place the spinach mixture back into the pan over low heat. Mix in ½ cup of water and delicately fold in the feta cubes, ensuring they remain intact. Cook gently for an additional 5 to 7 minutes to slightly soften the feta and let it absorb some of the flavors from the spinach sauce.

3. 3

   As the feta is being cooked, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee (or oil) in a small saucepan or butter warmer over medium-high heat. Let it warm for about 1 minute before adding the cumin seeds. Once the cumin seeds begin to sizzle and turn slightly brown, which should take no longer than 1 minute, take the pan off the heat promptly. Quickly mix in the asafetida (if preferred) and red chili powder.

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• Cultural note

  Creamy Spinach Feta in Indian Sauce combines the flavors of Indian spices like coriander, cumin, and asafetida with the creaminess of feta cheese, creating a fusion dish that reflects the rich culinary heritage of India. The use of ghee, a traditional Indian cooking fat, adds authenticity to the recipe.

• Seasonal note

  Spinach is typically in season during the spring and fall months, making this dish ideal to enjoy during those times. The spices used in Indian cuisine are available year-round.

• Health note

  This dish is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K from the spinach and other vegetables, which are important for immune function, skin health, and bone strength. However, it is high in saturated fat and sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation.