Dal Palak Recipe: Dal Palak is a delectable fusion of protein-rich assorted lentils (dals), fiber-packed spinach (palak), and a blend of magical ghee-tempered spices. This wholesome Indian curry, doubling as a dal, has the power to transform any meal into a healthy culinary experience. Its appealing green color is as enticing as its unique texture, achieved through a combination of chopped and crushed spinach.
Ingredients:
Dal Palak Recipe
- 1/4 cup Chana Dal (bengal gram)
- 1/4 cup Toor Dal (pigeon pea)
- 1/4 cup Yellow Moong Dal
- 2 cups chopped Fresh Spinach (palak)
- 1/2 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
- A pinch of Asafoetida (hing)
- 1 large Onion, finely chopped
- 1½ teaspoons Ginger-Garlic Paste (or crushed)
- 2 Green Chillies, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon Coriander Powder
- 1 teaspoon Lemon Juice
- 1/2 tablespoon Oil
- 1/2 tablespoon Ghee (clarified butter)
- 1 cube Butter, for garnishing
- Salt
Directions:
Dal Palak Recipe
Step 1: Preparation of Lentils
- Wash all the dals thoroughly by rinsing 2-3 times in water. Soak them together for 15-20 minutes. Drain excess water and pressure-cook with 1½ cups water and salt for 3 whistles in a 3-5 liter capacity pressure cooker over medium flame.
Step 2: Dal Mashing
- Turn off the flame and let the pressure subside naturally (approximately 7-8 minutes). Open the lid and gently mash the dal with the backside of a spoon.
Step 3: Spinach Puree
- Clean and cut the spinach. Wash the chopped palak. Add 1½ cups palak to a small jar of a mixer grinder and grind into a smooth puree. If it doesn’t puree properly after multiple pulses, add 2 tablespoons water and try again.
Step 4: Tempering
- Heat oil and ghee together in a pan over medium flame (ghee is used for a delightful aromatic flavor). Add cumin seeds and asafoetida. When the seeds turn light brown, add chopped onion and sauté until it turns light brown. Add ginger-garlic paste, chopped green chilli, and sauté for 30-40 seconds.
Step 5: Adding Spinach and Dal
- Add the pureed palak (prepared in step-3), remaining 1/2 cup chopped palak, and salt to taste.
Step 6: Cooking
- Stir and cook for 4-5 minutes.
Step 7: Flavor Enhancements
- Add lemon juice, coriander powder, cooked dal, and 1/2 cup water.
Step 8: Final Cooking
- Mix well and cook for 6-7 minutes or until the dal thickens. Taste for salt and add more if required at this stage.
Step 9: Finishing Touch
- Turn off the flame. Transfer the prepared spinach dal to a serving bowl and garnish with a cube of butter. Serve it with your choice of rice or pulao.
Tips and Variations:
Dal Palak Recipe
- If you are in a hurry, skip soaking the dal (in step-1) and pressure-cook it for 1 more whistle (4 whistles total).
- In this recipe, spinach puree is used for a vibrant green color. You can also add only chopped spinach or only spinach puree according to your preference.
- To achieve the desired consistency, add more water (step-7) or cook longer (step-8).
- If you are preparing this healthy dal for kids, then omit green chillies.
Taste: Mildly spicy
Serving Ideas: Serve dal palak with jeera rice or any stuffed paratha for a healthy and protein-rich meal during lunch or dinner.
Conclusion:
Dal Palak Recipe, with its rich blend of lentils, spinach, and aromatic spices, is not only a flavorful Indian curry but also a wholesome addition to your meals. The FAQs provide handy tips for customization, ensuring a delightful culinary experience. Whether you’re a cooking enthusiast or a busy parent, Dal Palak offers a nutritious and easy-to-make option that caters to diverse tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Dal Palak Recipe
What types of lentils can I use for Dal Palak Recipe?
Dal Palak Recipe traditionally uses a combination of split chickpeas (chana dal), split pigeon peas (toor dal), and split mung beans (moong dal). Feel free to customize the lentil blend to your preference.
Can I make Dal Palak without soaking the lentils?
Yes, you can skip soaking the lentils if you want a quicker version. Be sure to pressure cook for an extra whistle or two to help soften the lentils.
How can I adjust the thickness of the dal?
Add more water while cooking to thin out the dal consistency. For a thicker dal, reduce the amount of water or cook for less time. Adjust to your desired thickness.
Is there a milder version for children?
Omitting green chilies during cooking makes a milder, more kid-friendly version. This reduces the heat while keeping all the flavor.
What are some good side dishes for Dal Palak Recipe?
Dal Palak pairs excellently with jeera rice, raita, papadum, or stuffed paratha. It’s a healthy, protein-rich addition to any Indian meal.
