Dal Palak, or spinach and lentil curry, is a vibrant and flavorful vegetarian dish deeply rooted in Indian cuisine. This comforting and nutritious curry boasts a rich, earthy taste from the lentils, perfectly complemented by the fresh, slightly bitter spinach. It's a simple yet satisfying meal, packed with protein and essential vitamins, making it a healthy and delicious choice for any weeknight dinner. The vibrant green color alone is enough to brighten your plate! This recipe offers a balanced blend of spices, creating a depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
Beyond its deliciousness, Dal Palak is incredibly versatile; you can easily adjust the spice level to your preference and serve it with rice, roti, naan, or even as a side dish. Ready to experience the magic of this flavorful Indian staple? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step process of making this delicious Dal Palak Curry.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Spinach
- Lentils
- Onions
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Green chilies
- Turmeric powder
- Coriander powder
- Cumin powder
- Garam masala
- Salt
- Oil or Ghee
- Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Wash and chop the spinach.
- Chop onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Lentils
- In a pot, heat oil or ghee. Add onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies; sauté briefly.
- Add lentils and sauté for a few minutes.
- Stir in turmeric powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, garam masala, and salt.
Step 3. Simmer and Cook Spinach
- Add water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender.
- Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Simmer for a few more minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot with rice or roti.
Read more: Creamy Cashew Chicken Curry: A Simple Yet Sumptuous Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of spices to your preference.
- For a creamier curry, you can blend a portion of the cooked dal before adding the spinach.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a tangy flavor.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbs: 30-35g
- Protein: 10-12g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the pot. Frozen spinach might slightly alter the texture, but it will still taste great.
2. How can I make this spicier?
Add more green chilies, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to increase the heat level according to your preference.
3. What can I serve Dal Palak with?
Dal Palak is delicious served with rice, roti, naan, or even as a side dish alongside other Indian curries. It's versatile and pairs well with many things!
This Dal Palak recipe offers a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Indian cuisine. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. Enjoy this nutritious and satisfying curry as a comforting weeknight meal or a flavorful addition to your next gathering!