Why does methi aloo taste bitter?

Fresh methi leaves are naturally bitter. To reduce this, sprinkle salt over chopped methi, rest for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess moisture before cooking.

Can I make methi aloo without mustard oil?

Yes. Use any regular cooking oil, though mustard oil adds a distinctive flavour. Always heat it well to remove rawness.

Can I skip curd in this recipe?

Yes. Curd adds mild tang and balances bitterness, but the sabzi tastes good even without it.

How do I know when methi is cooked properly?

Methi should shrink, turn dark green, and lose its raw aroma. Avoid overcooking to preserve flavour.

Can I use frozen methi instead of fresh?

Yes. Thaw completely and squeeze out excess water before adding. Frozen methi is usually less bitter.

Methi Aloo ki Sabzi

Name: Methi Aloo ki Sabzi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: North Indian
Ingredients: 500 g fresh fenugreek leaves (methi); 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled & cubed; 5 tbsp mustard oil; 1 tsp cumin seeds; 1 tsp mustard seeds; 0.25 tsp asafoetida (hing); 0.5 tbsp ginger, finely chopped/grated; 0.5 tbsp garlic, finely chopped; 2 green chillies chopped; 1 cup onions, finely chopped; 1 cup tomatoes, grated; 3 tbsp yogurt (curd), whisked; 0.5 tsp turmeric powder; 0.5 tbsp coriander powder; 1 tsp Kashmiri chilli powder; Salt to taste; 0.25 cup water; 1 tsp garam masala (optional)

Leena Kohli (@leenakohli)

North Indian Lunch Dinner Side Main Course Vegetarian Gluten-Free Nut-Free

Methi Aloo ki Sabzi is a classic North Indian dish made with fresh fenugreek leaves (methi) and potatoes, cooked the way it’s done in many Indian homes. This Punjabi-style methi aloo recipe brings together the slight bitterness of methi, soft potatoes, everyday spices, and a delicious tangy-spicy flavour from curd, which balances everything beautifully. Cooked in mustard oil with ginger, garlic, onions, and tomatoes, this homestyle sabzi is simple, comforting, and full of flavour. The...

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Prep Time

15min

Cook Time

30min

Total Time

45min

How to make Methi Aloo ki Sabzi

Prep the methi & potatoes

Step 1
Wash the fenugreek leaves thoroughly to remove grit. Drain well, chop finely, and keep aside.
Step 2
Peel, wash, and cut the potatoes into cubes or halves. Set aside.

Prepare the base

Step 1
Heat mustard oil in a kadhai (wok) over medium-high heat until it begins to smoke lightly. Reduce the heat.
Step 2
Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and hing. Let them crackle for a few seconds.
Step 3
Add ginger, garlic, and green chillies. Sauté until fragrant and lightly golden.
Step 4
Add onions and cook until soft and lightly golden.
Step 5
Add grated tomatoes and cook until soft and oil begins to separate. Lower the heat, add whisked curd and mix well. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
Step 6
Add turmeric, coriander powder, Kashmiri chilli powder, and salt. Pour in water, mix, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the masala releases oil.

Cook potatoes & methi

Step 1
Add the cubed potatoes, mix well, cover, and cook on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring once.
Step 2
Add the chopped methi leaves and mix gently. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and methi is cooked.
Step 3
Check seasoning, sprinkle garam masala if using, mix and turn off the heat.

Serving Suggestions

Step 1
Serve hot with roti, paratha, or plain rice. Pairs beautifully with simple dal and a bowl of curd.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

109.1kcal (5.46%)

Protein

3.8g (7.6%)

Carbs

5.7g (2.07%)

Sugars

2.2g (4.34%)

Healthy Fat

7.4g

Unhealthy Fat

1.3g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

Mustard oil gives an authentic Punjabi flavour, but any neutral oil can be used.
Choose fresh, bright green methi leaves for the best taste and texture.
To reduce bitterness, soak methi in salted water for 10–15 minutes, then rinse and squeeze gently.
Adjust chilli powder to suit your spice preference.
Add a small spoon of ghee at the end for extra richness.

FAQS

Why does methi aloo taste bitter?
Fresh methi leaves are naturally bitter. To reduce this, sprinkle salt over chopped methi, rest for 10 minutes, then squeeze out excess moisture before cooking.
Can I make methi aloo without mustard oil?
Yes. Use any regular cooking oil, though mustard oil adds a distinctive flavour. Always heat it well to remove rawness.
Can I skip curd in this recipe?
Yes. Curd adds mild tang and balances bitterness, but the sabzi tastes good even without it.
How do I know when methi is cooked properly?
Methi should shrink, turn dark green, and lose its raw aroma. Avoid overcooking to preserve flavour.
Can I use frozen methi instead of fresh?
Yes. Thaw completely and squeeze out excess water before adding. Frozen methi is usually less bitter.