Hearty and wholesome Dal Palak (Spinach Dal), lightly spiced, makes a great comforting meal and is a seasonal favorite. It’s also a classic source of plant-based proteins, especially in the diets of vegetarians and vegans.
Discover the irresistible comfort and nutritional richness of Palak Dal, a beloved staple in Indian cuisine. Packed with protein-rich split urad dal and nutrient-dense spinach, this dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also evokes cherished childhood memories and brings families together.
Let’s dive into the delicious world of Palak Dal. This is a dish that’s not just about flavor; it’s about the warmth of home and the nostalgia of childhood. If you grew up in an Indian household, chances are Palak Dal made an appearance on your dining table. Each bite serving up a hearty dose of comfort and tradition with every spoonful.
Palak Dal isn’t just a dish; it’s a connection to your roots, a taste of home no matter where you are. It’s the dish your mom made when you were feeling under the weather, the dish that always brought the family together around the dinner table. Picture this: creamy split urad dal mingling with vibrant green spinach, all cooked up with a blend of spices that make your taste buds dance. This dish has been warming bellies and bringing smiles for generations, and it’s not hard to see why.
Now, let’s break it down. First up, we’ve got split urad dal. This stuff is like nature’s protein powerhouse, perfect for all you vegetarians and vegans out there. It’s got the goods to help your muscles repair and grow, and it’s great for keeping your energy levels steady throughout the day.
But wait, there’s more! Urad dal is also packing some serious fiber, which means it’s doing wonders for your digestion and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Plus, it’s got a low glycemic index, so it’s not messing with your blood sugar levels like some other foods might.
Spinach, or Palak is the other main ingredient. It’s a nutrient-packed superhero in its own right. Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, and iron, spinach is full of antioxidants and phytonutrients to strengthen your body.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro in the kitchen or a newbie looking to expand your culinary horizons, Palak Dal is a dish that’s sure to win you over. So the next time you’re feeling hungry, why not give it a try? Your taste buds and your body will thank you for it!
Palak Dal
Ingredients
- 1 c split urad dal, rinsed and soaked for 30 minutes
- 2 c spinach, roughly chopped, packed
- 1 tsp salt, divided
- 1 tsp turmeric, divided
- 3 c water
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 10 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1" (knob) ginger, grated
- 1 green chili, chopped
- **½ tsp asafoetida
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp kashmiri mirch
Instructions
- Drain the urad dal from the water it is soaking in and transfer to either Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker.
- Add in 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp turmeric.
- Add 3 c water.
For Pressure Cooker:
- Seal and cook for 2 whistles.
- Remove from heat, release the pressure from the cooker before unsealing the lid.
For Instant Pot:
- Seal and set vent to sealing position.
- Set Manual Pressure to 12 minutes.
- Once the timer goes off, release pressure, then unseal the lid.
For the Gravy:
- Meanwhile, in a large, wide pan, heat oil on medium heat.
- Add in the cumin seeds and garlic. Roast for 30 seconds.
- Add in the onion and saute until browned. About 10-12 minutes.
- Add in the ginger, green chili, and asafoetida. Mix and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add in the tomatoes and 1/2 tsp salt. Mix well and cook until the tomatoes have cooked down into a gravy.
- Add in 1/2 tsp turmeric, kashmiri mirch, and mix. Cook until you see the oil starting to separate from the gravy.
- Now add in the chopped spinach and cook for 3-5 minutes until the spinach has wilted down.
- Mix in the cooked urad dal along with the liquid.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes until all of the flavors have marinated together.
- Serve hot with rice, naan, or roti.
Notes
**To make this recipe gluten free, replace hing with this Gluten Free Hing.
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