Bhojpuri-style Spinach Curry with Smoked Pork

Ingredients

In the original Ethiopian dish, Hamli, the main ingredient is collard greens, while in the Bhojpuri adaptation, spinach is used instead. Additionally, the original dish does not include pork, but in the Bhojpuri version, smoked pork is added to enhance the flavor and richness of the curry. The spices used in the Bhojpuri adaptation are also specific to Bhojpuri cuisine, giving the dish a distinct flavor profile. We alse have the original recipe for Hamli, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) smoked pork, cubed 500g (1.1 lb) smoked pork, cubed
• 500g (1.1 lb) spinach, washed and chopped 500g (1.1 lb) spinach, washed and chopped
• 2 onions, finely chopped 2 onions, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated 1-inch ginger, grated
• 2 tomatoes, pureed 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 green chilies, slit 2 green chilies, slit
• 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
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil 2 tablespoons oil

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. 2.
   Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the oil separates.
5. 5.
   Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
6. 6.
   Add the cubed smoked pork and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. 7.
   Add the chopped spinach and green chilies. Mix well.
8. 8.
   Cover the pan and let the curry simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the spinach is wilted.
9. 9.
   Adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. 10.
    Serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Smoked pork — If you cannot find smoked pork, you can use regular pork and add a few drops of liquid smoke to achieve a similar flavor.
• Spinach — Make sure to wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. You can also blanch the spinach before adding it to the curry for a softer texture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier curry, increase the amount of red chili powder or add a pinch of garam masala.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of green chilies or remove the seeds before adding them to the curry.
• Serve the Bhojpuri-style Spinach Curry with Smoked Pork with a side of yogurt or raita to balance the flavors.
• This curry tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance and reheating it for a quick and delicious meal.
• Experiment with different types of smoked pork, such as bacon or smoked ham, to add variety to the dish.

Serving advice

Serve the Bhojpuri-style Spinach Curry with Smoked Pork hot with steamed rice or freshly made roti. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness and flavor.

Presentation advice

Present the Bhojpuri-style Spinach Curry with Smoked Pork in a deep serving dish, allowing the vibrant green color of the curry to stand out. Serve it alongside a bowl of steamed rice or a stack of warm rotis for an authentic Bhojpuri dining experience.