Swiss chard, a leafy green vegetable packed with nutrients and flavor, has long been a staple in many cuisines around the world. While it’s often associated with European and American cooking, we’re excited to showcase its versatility in Indian cuisine. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 flavorful Swiss chard recipes that blend traditional Indian flavors with the earthy goodness of this superfood.
From hearty curries and stews to crispy stir-fries and snackable pakoras, our collection offers something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to spice up your meals, these innovative recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. So let’s dive in and explore the many faces of Swiss chard in Indian cuisine!
Swiss Chard and Potato Curry
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian curry that combines the earthy taste of Swiss chard with the comforting warmth of potatoes, all wrapped up in a rich and aromatic Indian-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can of coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add potatoes, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Add Swiss chard and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender and Swiss chard is wilted.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Indian Spiced Swiss Chard Stir-Fry
This flavorful stir-fry combines the earthy sweetness of Swiss chard with the warm, aromatic spices of India. Perfect as a side dish or added to rice or naan for a filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, curry powder, garam masala, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add Swiss chard and stir-fry until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Swiss Chard Dal with Coconut Milk
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional dal, this recipe combines the nutritious Swiss chard with coconut milk for a deliciously rich and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups Swiss chard leaves and stems, chopped
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Swiss chard and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the lentils, water, and salt to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Swiss Chard Poriyal (South Indian Style)
A flavorful and nutritious poriyal made with Swiss chard, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices. This recipe is a great way to incorporate healthy greens into your daily meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sambar powder (or substitute with garam masala)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup grated coconut (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
4. Add chopped Swiss chard, sambar powder, and salt. Stir well.
5. Cook until the greens are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Garnish with grated coconut, if using.
7. Serve hot with steaming rice or roti.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Swiss Chard and Chickpea Masala
This recipe combines the earthy sweetness of Swiss chard with the creamy richness of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a flavorful Indian-inspired sauce. Perfect as a side dish or added to rice or naan for a filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, coriander, and cayenne; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, Swiss chard, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the greens are tender.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Swiss Chard Pakoras with Mint Chutney
Swiss Chard Pakoras with Mint Chutney Recipe
Discover the unique flavor combination of Swiss chard and mint in this crispy, flavorful, and refreshing snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped (white and green parts)
– 1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Mint chutney (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together besan, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cumin seeds.
2. Add chopped Swiss chard to the mixture and stir until well combined.
3. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with Mint Chutney.
Mint Chutney Recipe:
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup green chilies
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Swiss Chard Thoran (Kerala Style)
A traditional Kerala-style dish that combines the nutritious Swiss chard with aromatic spices and coconut, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of Swiss chard, chopped
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon coconut milk
– Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Saute until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Saute for 30 seconds.
4. Add the chopped Swiss chard and saute until it’s well combined with the spices and slightly wilted.
5. Add the coconut milk and stir well to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Swiss Chard and Paneer Sabzi
This flavorful Indian-inspired sabzi combines the earthy sweetness of Swiss chard with the creamy richness of paneer, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. With its mild spices and pop of color from the chard, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped
– 250g paneer (Indian cheese), diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add cumin and coriander; cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add Swiss chard and cook until wilted, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Stir in paneer and season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Swiss Chard Chutney with Roasted Peanuts
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, naan bread, or as a dip for crudités. The addition of roasted peanuts adds a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add chopped Swiss chard and cook until wilted.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine cooked chard mixture, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
5. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Stir in roasted peanuts and remove from heat.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Swiss Chard and Lentil Stew
A hearty and nutritious stew that combines the earthy flavors of Swiss chard and red lentils with aromatic spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups Swiss chard leaves (fresh or frozen), chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add lentils, water or broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
3. Stir in chopped Swiss chard leaves. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until greens have wilted.
4. Serve hot, with optional lemon wedges and crusty bread.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Swiss Chard Bhaji (Maharashtrian Style)
A flavorful and healthy twist on the classic Indian bhaji, this recipe combines Swiss chard with traditional spices to create a delicious and nutritious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of Swiss chard, cleaned and chopped
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and sauté until they are translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
4. Add the chopped Swiss chard, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the greens have wilted and the mixture is well combined.
6. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Swiss Chard and Tomato Rasam
This refreshing Indian-inspired soup combines the earthy flavor of Swiss chard with the sweetness of tomatoes, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Swiss chard leaves and stems, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, turmeric powder, and salt.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
6. Bring to a simmer and add the Swiss chard leaves and stems.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the greens are tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Swiss Chard Stuffed Parathas
Combine the nutty flavor of Swiss chard with the crispy, buttery goodness of parathas for a delightful twist on traditional Indian flatbread. This recipe is perfect for those looking to add some greens to their meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped (stems and leaves)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes.
2. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions.
3. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 3 inches in diameter).
4. Place a tablespoon of chopped Swiss chard mixture in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges together to seal.
5. Heat ghee or oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook parathas for 1-2 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden.
6. Serve with lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Swiss Chard Kadhi with Besan Dumplings
This recipe combines the nutritious Swiss chard with a flavorful kadhi made from besan (gram flour) and yogurt, served with soft and fluffy dumplings.
Ingredients:
For the kadhi:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1 cup yogurt
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
For the dumplings:
– 1 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onion, garlic, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and turmeric powder.
2. Add chopped Swiss chard and cook until wilted.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together besan, yogurt, and salt to make the kadhi mixture.
4. Gradually add water to the kadhi mixture to achieve desired consistency.
5. Make dumplings by mixing besan, water, baking soda, and salt. Knead into small balls.
6. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 10-12 minutes or until they float.
7. Serve dumplings with the Swiss chard kadhi.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Swiss Chard and Moong Dal Khichdi
This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of Swiss chard with the comforting warmth of moong dal khichdi, a popular Indian dish. This flavorful and nutritious meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup moong dal
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups Swiss chard leaves, chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the moong dal and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and cook the moong dal with 2 cups of fresh water until it’s soft and mushy.
3. Heat the ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
5. Add the chopped Swiss chard leaves to the pan and stir well. Cook until the chard is wilted.
6. Combine the cooked moong dal with the chard mixture. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Swiss Chard and Coconut Rice
This hearty side dish combines the earthy flavor of Swiss chard with the creamy richness of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a flavorful rice bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a nutritious addition to your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch Swiss chard (about 4 cups), stems removed and chopped
– 1 can full-fat coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
2. In a large skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chopped Swiss chard stems and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk and cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Swiss Chard Raita with Cumin and Mustard Seeds
Add a burst of Indian-inspired flavor to your meal with this refreshing raita recipe, featuring Swiss chard, cumin, and mustard seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, chopped (about 2 cups)
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon mustard seeds
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chopped Swiss chard, yogurt, lemon juice, cumin, and mustard seeds.
2. Mix well until the greens are evenly coated with the yogurt mixture.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep) + chilling time
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Swiss Chard Raita with Cumin and Mustard Seeds!
Swiss Chard and Sweet Corn Curry
This vibrant curry combines the sweetness of summer corn with the earthy flavor of Swiss chard, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch Swiss chard, stems removed and chopped
– 2 cups fresh sweet corn kernels
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tsp curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add corn kernels and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly tender.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, curry powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
7. Stir in chopped Swiss chard and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with these 18 mouthwatering Swiss chard recipes. From hearty stews to flavorful stir-fries, and from creamy curries to crispy pakoras, this collection has it all. Explore the versatility of Swiss chard as you experiment with different spices, herbs, and cooking techniques. Try your hand at making a comforting Swiss Chard and Potato Curry or a vibrant Indian Spiced Swiss Chard Stir-Fry. With these recipes, you’ll be inspired to get creative and add a pop of green to your meals.
