South Indian Style Dal Palak Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.Wash and soak the lentils for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
• STEP 2.In a pressure cooker, add the soaked lentils, water, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook for 3-4 whistles or until the lentils are soft.
• STEP 3.In a separate pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add cumin seeds, curry leaves, and chopped onions. Saute until the onions turn golden brown.
• STEP 4.Add ginger-garlic paste and saute for a minute. Then add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft.
• STEP 5.Add spinach leaves and cook until they wilt. Allow the mixture to cool and then blend it into a smooth puree.
• STEP 6.Add the spinach puree to the cooked lentils and mix well. Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
• STEP 7.In a small pan, heat ghee and add red chili powder. Pour this tempering over the dal palak and mix well.
• STEP 8.Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with rice or roti.

Cooking Tips

• Soaking the lentils helps in reducing the cooking time.
• You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less red chili powder.
• For a creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of fresh cream to the dal palak.

Storage and Serving

• Leftover dal palak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat the dal palak in a pan or microwave before serving.
• Serve the dal palak with steamed rice, jeera rice, or roti for a complete meal.