Kalmi Shak Bhaji (কলমি শাক ভাজি), also known as Water Spinach Stir Fry, is a beloved traditional dish from Bangladesh that celebrates simplicity and freshness. It’s a light, nourishing vegetable recipe often prepared in rural and urban homes alike, especially during the summer and rainy seasons when kalmi shak is in abundance.

This Bangladeshi-style Kalmi Spinach recipe is quick to prepare, requiring minimal spices yet delivering a beautiful balance of earthy flavor and aroma. Cooked with just a few everyday ingredients, it brings out the natural sweetness of the greens and the signature taste of home-style Bangladeshi cooking. The key to perfecting this dish lies in stir-frying the greens just enough to keep them vibrant and tender while locking in their nutrition.

Kalmi Shak Bhaji is often enjoyed as a side dish with plain rice and lentil soup (dal), creating a comforting and balanced Bengali meal. It’s also a favorite among those who love vegetarian or vegan-friendly Bangladeshi dishes. Whether served for lunch or dinner, this quick stir fry captures the essence of everyday cooking—simple, healthy, and full of soul.

This dish not only satisfies the taste buds but also reflects the deep connection between Bangladeshi people and seasonal vegetables. The freshness of kalmi shak, the aroma of garlic, and the light touch of mustard oil make this recipe one of the most comforting and nutritious green dishes in Bengali cuisine.

Health Tips:

• Kalmi Shak (Water Spinach) is rich in iron, calcium, fiber, and vitamins A and C, making it great for overall health.
• It helps improve digestion, supports eye health, and promotes blood circulation.
• Low in calories and high in antioxidants, it’s ideal for those who prefer light and healthy meals.
• Cooking it in small amounts of oil retains more nutrients and natural flavor.
• Pair it with lentils or rice for a balanced and protein-rich meal.

Delicious Kalmi Spinach Recipe | Bangladeshi Style Kalmi Shak Bhaji | Healthy Water Spinach Stir Fry

Recipe by Shaira SharminCourse: Blog, Spinach Recipes

Kalmi Shak Bhaji is a simple, flavorful, and healthy Bangladeshi-style spinach stir fry made with fresh water spinach. Lightly seasoned and quickly cooked, this traditional dish captures the pure taste of village-style home cooking. Perfect with rice for a wholesome and comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 1. Chopped Garlic – 5-6 cloves
  2. Chili flakes – 1 tsp
  3. Kalmi spinach – 200 gm
  4. Salt to taste

Directions

• First, clean the Kalmi spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or sand.
  Wash it nicely several times in clean water and keep it in a sieve to drain.
  After about 30 minutes, when most of the water has drained out, cut the spinach into small pieces.
  Next, take 6 to 7 garlic cloves and slice them thinly.
  Now it’s time to cook.
  Heat a pan on low flame and add a small amount of cooking oil.
  Add the sliced garlic and 1 teaspoon of chili flakes.
  Fry them gently until the garlic turns light golden and aromatic.
  Add the chopped spinach to the pan and stir it well.
  Cook on low flame until the spinach begins to soften.
  Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  After about 2 minutes, when the spinach becomes soft, add salt to taste.
  Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the spinach is tender and the water has evaporated.
  Your delicious Kalmi Spinach Bhaji is now ready to serve. Enjoy it warm with plain steamed rice or lentil soup (dal) for a light and healthy meal.

Notes

• Cooking Notes & Tips:
  Always use fresh kalmi shak. Wash it thoroughly as the stems often carry sand or mud.
  Cook on medium to high flame to keep the greens crisp and green in color.
  Mustard oil adds an authentic Bangladeshi flavor, but you can also use soybean or vegetable oil if preferred.
  Add a little green chili for extra spice and aroma.
  Serve hot immediately after cooking to enjoy its full flavor and freshness.