Palak – the green goddess of Indian cuisine. Spinach, or palak as it’s commonly known, adds a burst of flavor and nutrients to any dish. And when combined with other ingredients like paneer, chicken, dal, or rice, the results are simply delicious. Whether you’re looking for a comforting breakfast option or a flavorful dinner recipe, palak has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 delectable palak recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. From creamy curries to crispy pakoras, we’ve got it all covered. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in the world of palak!
Palak Paneer
Palak Paneer is a popular Indian dish that combines the creaminess of spinach puree with the richness of paneer (Indian cheese). This recipe is a simple and flavorful take on this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup paneer cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Blend spinach leaves with garlic and 1 tablespoon water until smooth.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cumin, coriander, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add paneer cubes and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the spinach puree. If using heavy cream, add it now.
6. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Palak Dal
Palak dal, a popular Indian lentil soup, gets an creamy twist with the addition of coconut milk and spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and cook the lentils with 2 cups of fresh water until they are soft.
3. Heat ghee or oil in a pan and sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until they are lightly browned.
4. Add the cooked lentils, spinach leaves, cumin powder, and salt to the pan. Stir well.
5. Pour in the coconut milk and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup thickens slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Palak Paratha
Palak parathas are a popular Indian flatbread that combines the nutritious goodness of spinach with the flaky texture of whole wheat dough. This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy this beloved dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup spinach puree (see note)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or vegetable oil
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Combine the flour and salt in a bowl.
2. Gradually add water to form a dough, kneading for 5 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
5. Place 1 tablespoon of spinach puree in the center of each circle.
6. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the parathas for 30-40 seconds on each side, until they are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: To make spinach puree, blend 1 cup cooked spinach with 2 tablespoons water and 1 tablespoon lemon juice until smooth.
Palak Chicken Curry
A creamy and flavorful Indian-inspired dish, Palak Chicken Curry combines the richness of spinach with the tender juiciness of chicken. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
2. In the same pan, add onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cumin, turmeric, and chili powder to the pan. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add spinach leaves and chicken broth to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until spinach has wilted.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir in heavy cream or half-and-half (if using). Season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer curry for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Palak Rice
Palak rice is a popular Indian dish that combines the flavors of spinach, garlic, and spices with fluffy basmati rice. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
4. Drain and add the soaked rice to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
5. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Serve hot with a sprinkle of cumin powder.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Palak Soup
A creamy and comforting Indian-inspired soup made with spinach, potatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the potatoes, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add the spinach leaves and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Palak Corn Sabzi
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of corn with the earthy flavor of spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Palak Corn Sabzi is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup water
– Heavy cream or coconut cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add frozen corn kernels and cook until they start to thaw.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves, garam masala powder, and salt. Cook until the spinach wilts.
5. Add water and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
7. Stir in heavy cream or coconut cream (if using) and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Palak Puri
This recipe brings together the creamy goodness of spinach and the crispy texture of puris, making it a perfect combination for any meal. With just a few simple steps, you can create this flavorful dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 puris (Indian bread)
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add garlic, onion, and ginger; sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Add spinach leaves, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and salt; stir well.
4. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the spinach is fully cooked.
5. Serve with puris.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Thepla
Palak Thepla Recipe
A classic Gujarati snack that combines the flavors of spinach, gram flour, and spices to create a delicious and healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups spinach leaves
– 1 cup gram flour (besan)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon amchur powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, grind the spinach leaves into a smooth paste.
2. In a bowl, mix together the gram flour, baking soda, cumin seeds, coriander powder, and amchur powder.
3. Add the ground spinach to the dry mixture and mix well.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions, depending on how large you want your theplas to be.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
7. Place a thepla in the pan and cook for about 30 seconds or until it starts to puff up.
8. Flip and cook for another 30 seconds, until golden brown.
9. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Palak Pakora
Palak Pakora: Crispy Fritters in Spinach Curry Sauce
Palak Pakora is a popular Indian snack that combines the comfort of crispy fried fritters with the nourishing goodness of spinach. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup spinach puree
– 1/2 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together spinach puree, besan, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the oil and fry until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot with palak curry or yogurt-based raita.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Kofta
Palak Kofta: A Delicious Spinach and Cheese Filled Delight
Palak Kofta is a popular Indian dish that combines the creamy goodness of spinach with the richness of cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy exterior. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated paneer (Indian cheese)
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, paneer, onion, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin powder. Mix well.
2. Add the beaten egg and mix until a smooth paste forms.
3. Divide the mixture into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Dip each ball in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the koftas in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve Palak Kofta with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a larger meal.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Mushroom
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish, Palak Mushroom is a popular Indian recipe made with spinach, mushrooms, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
5. Add spinach leaves and stir well to combine with the mushroom mixture.
6. Add turmeric powder, salt, and water. Stir well to combine.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Aloo
Palak Aloo Recipe: Creamy Spinach and Potato Curry
Palak Aloo is a popular Indian dish made with spinach puree, potatoes, and spices. This creamy curry is perfect for a comforting meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream or half-and-half
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add potatoes and cook for 5 minutes or until they start to brown.
4. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Blend the mixture into a smooth puree.
6. Return the pan to medium heat, add heavy cream, and stir well.
7. Season with salt and serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Bhaji
Palak Bhaji is a popular Indian spinach dish that is flavorful, nutritious, and easy to make. This recipe is a classic version of Palak Bhaji that combines the goodness of spinach with aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Heat butter or oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
5. Add fresh spinach leaves, salt, and garam masala powder. Stir well.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the spinach has wilted.
7. Add water and stir to combine.
8. Serve hot with naan, rice, or roti.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Palak Chole
Palak Chole Recipe
A creamy and flavorful spinach curry with a twist – adding chickpeas! Palak Chole is a popular North Indian dish that combines the richness of palak (spinach) with the comfort of chole (chickpeas).
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
3. Add garlic, tomato, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and turmeric. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add chopped spinach and cooked chickpeas. Stir well to combine.
5. Gradually add water, stirring continuously.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Palak Kadhi
Palak Kadhi: A Creamy Spinach-Based Curry from India
Palak Kadhi is a popular Indian curry made with spinach puree, yogurt, and spices. This recipe brings together the flavors of spinach, garlic, ginger, and cumin to create a deliciously creamy and comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches piece of ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup besan (gram flour)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until they turn golden brown (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the garlic, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the besan and stir well.
5. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
6. Remove from heat and blend to a smooth puree.
7. Stir in the yogurt and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Dosa
A popular Indian breakfast or snack option, Palak Dosa combines the creamy goodness of spinach with crispy rice flour dosas. This recipe is a simple and flavorful take on this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rice flour
– 1/4 cup semolina
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach puree
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together rice flour, semolina, and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to form a smooth batter.
3. Add the spinach puree and mix well.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
5. Pour a ladle of batter onto the pan and spread it evenly.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl.
7. Brush with ghee or oil and flip the dosa.
8. Cook for another minute, until golden brown.
9. Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of dosas)
Palak Raita
A creamy and refreshing yogurt-based side dish, Palak Raita is a popular accompaniment to Indian meals. This recipe combines the tanginess of yogurt with the sweetness of spinach puree.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup cooked spinach puree
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the yogurt, spinach puree, cumin, and salt until smooth.
2. Add the lemon juice and mix well.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
5. Serve cold alongside your favorite Indian dishes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly preparation time)
Palak Khichdi
Palak Khichdi is a popular Indian dish that combines the flavors of spinach, rice, and spices. This creamy and comforting recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and creamy.
7. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and season with salt.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Palak Chutney
Palak chutney is a popular Indian condiment made with spinach, garlic, and spices. This creamy and flavorful sauce is great as a dip for snacks or as an accompaniment to various dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add spinach leaves, cumin powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Stir well.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the spinach is cooked through.
6. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
7. Let it cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of flavors with our collection of 20 delicious Palak recipes! From classic dishes like Palak Paneer and Creamy Palak Dal to innovative twists like Palak Chicken Curry and Palak Rice, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for comforting meals or quick and easy snacks, these recipes are perfect for every occasion. Discover the versatility of spinach in our roundup of Palak-inspired dishes, from soups to curries, flatbreads to dosas. Get cooking with our simple and mouth-watering recipes!
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