Xaak Bhaji
A simple and nutritious Assamese stir-fry made with mustard greens, garlic, and green chilies. This rustic dish, tempered in mustard oil, is a staple in Assamese cuisine and pairs perfectly with steamed rice and dal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 10 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Greens (5 minutes)
- b.Wash the mustard greens thoroughly in a large bowl of water, changing the water 2-3 times to remove all grit and dirt.
- c.Drain the greens well. Roughly chop the leaves and tender stems, discarding any tough, fibrous parts.
- d.Set aside in a colander to allow excess water to drain off completely.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Temper the Spices (2 minutes)
- b.Place a kadai or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the mustard oil and heat it until it becomes very hot and just begins to smoke lightly. This step is crucial to mellow its pungent flavor.
- c.Reduce the heat to medium. Carefully add the panch phoron seeds and let them crackle for about 30 seconds.
- d.Add the chopped garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant and turns a pale golden color. Be careful not to burn it.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Xaak (8 minutes)
- b.Add the chopped mustard greens to the pan all at once. The pan will seem very full, but the greens will wilt down significantly.
- c.Sprinkle the turmeric powder and salt over the greens.
- d.Toss everything together gently to coat the greens with the oil and spices.
- e.Cover the pan with a lid and cook on low-medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The greens will release their own moisture and cook in the steam.
- f.Uncover the pan and stir-fry on medium-high heat for another 1-2 minutes to evaporate any remaining excess water. The final dish should be moist but not watery.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Serve
- b.Check the seasoning and add more salt if needed.
- c.Serve the Xaak Bhaji hot as a side dish with steamed rice (bhaat) and dal (dail) for a classic, comforting Assamese meal.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, do not substitute mustard oil. Heating it until it's lightly smoking is key to reducing its pungency.
- 2Washing greens thoroughly is critical. Submerging them in a large bowl of water helps the grit settle at the bottom.
- 3Avoid overcooking the greens to retain their vibrant color, texture, and nutritional value. They should be tender but still have a slight bite.
- 4The volume of greens reduces drastically upon cooking, so don't be alarmed by the large initial quantity.
- 5For a traditional Assamese 'khar' flavor without using actual khar, add a tiny pinch (less than 1/8 tsp) of baking soda while cooking. It helps soften the greens and preserve their color.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Vegetables
Create 'Aloo Xaak Bhaji' by adding one small potato, diced, along with the garlic and ginger. Sauté until partially cooked before adding the greens.
Different GreensDifferent Greens
While mustard greens are traditional, this recipe works well with other leafy greens like spinach (palak), amaranth leaves (dhekia xaak), or fenugreek leaves (methi).
Add LentilsAdd Lentils
For added protein, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of cooked masoor dal (red lentils) at the end of cooking.
Add a Tangy NoteAdd a Tangy Note
Squeeze a few drops of lemon juice or add a small, chopped tomato along with the greens for a hint of tanginess.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Mustard greens are an excellent source of Vitamin K, crucial for bone health and blood clotting, as well as Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which support vision and immune function.
Boosts Immunity
The combination of garlic, ginger, and Vitamin C from the greens helps strengthen the immune system and fight off common infections.
Supports Digestive Health
Being high in dietary fiber, this dish aids in digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Mustard oil, ginger, and turmeric contain compounds that have natural anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Xaak Bhaji is very healthy. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K from the mustard greens, packed with fiber, and low in calories. The use of garlic, ginger, and mustard oil also provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.