Lahori Lobodă Curry

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Ciorbă de lobodă to Lahori cuisine, we incorporate Lahori spices and cooking techniques to create a unique flavor profile. The original Romanian dish is typically a sour soup, whereas the Lahori version transforms it into a creamy curry. Additionally, we use Lahori spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala to enhance the flavors and adapt it to the Lahori palate. We alse have the original recipe for Ciorbă de lobodă, so you can check it out.

• 500 grams (1.1 lbs) fresh spinach leaves 500 grams (1.1 lbs) fresh spinach leaves
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• 1 cup (240 ml) yogurt 1 cup (240 ml) yogurt
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 4g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly and blanch them in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   Heat ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. 3.
   Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
4. 4.
   Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.
5. 5.
   Add the blanched spinach leaves to the pan and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. 6.
   In a separate bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Gradually add the yogurt to the spinach mixture, stirring continuously.
7. 7.
   Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot with naan or rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spinach — Make sure to blanch the spinach leaves briefly to retain their vibrant green color and prevent overcooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder according to your taste preference.
• Serve Lahori Lobodă Curry with a side of raita (yogurt sauce) to balance the flavors.
• To make it more indulgent, add a dollop of ghee on top before serving.
• If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the cooked spinach mixture before adding yogurt.
• Experiment with different garnishes such as sliced almonds or fried onions for added texture and flavor.

Serving advice

Serve Lahori Lobodă Curry hot with naan bread or steamed rice. It pairs well with a side of raita and pickles for a complete Lahori dining experience.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Lahori Lobodă Curry with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to add a pop of color. Serve it in a vibrant bowl to highlight the beautiful green hue of the curry.