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Dal Palak: A Nutritious Delight

Dal Palak, a beloved dish in Indian cuisine, combines the wholesome goodness of lentils with the vibrant green of spinach. This comforting and nutritious meal is not just delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, whether you choose the Instant Pot or stovetop method. Both versions yield a sumptuous dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.

What is Dal Palak?

Dal refers to legumes or lentils, which are a staple in Indian households. Spinach, or "palak" in Hindi, is a nutrient-rich leafy green packed with vitamins A and C, iron, and dietary fibre. When these two ingredients come together, they create a dish that is not only tasty but also brimming with health benefits. Dal Palak is often enjoyed with rice, roti, or naan, making it a versatile addition to any meal plan.

Ingredients

To prepare Dal Palak, you will need the following ingredients:

For 4 servings:

• Lentils: 1 cup (red lentils or split yellow lentils work best)
• Spinach: 2 cups, fresh or frozen, chopped
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Tomato: 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced
• Ginger: 1-inch piece, grated
• Green chillies: 1-2, slit (adjust to taste)
• Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
• Garam masala: 1 teaspoon (optional)
• Salt: to taste
• Oil or ghee: 2 tablespoons
• Water: 4 cups (or as needed)
• Lemon juice: Optional, for garnish
• Fresh coriander: Chopped, for garnish

Instant Pot Method

1. Sauté Aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Once hot, add oil (or ghee) and cumin seeds. Allow them to sizzle for a few seconds before adding the chopped onions. Sauté until they turn translucent.

2. Add Garlic, Ginger, and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chillies. Cook for another minute, then add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften.

3. Add Lentils and Spinach: Add the lentils (rinsed and drained) and chopped spinach to the pot. Pour in 4 cups of water, ensuring the lentils are submerged.

4. Pressure Cook: Close the lid, seal the valve, and set the Instant Pot to ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release.

5. Finish the Dish: Open the lid and stir the Dal Palak. If it’s too thick, add more water to reach your desired consistency. Add garam masala, adjust seasonings if necessary, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. Serve hot with rice or bread of your choice.

Stovetop Method

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or deep pan, heat oil (or ghee) over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow them to crackle before adding the chopped onion. Sauté until translucent.

2. Add Garlic, Ginger, and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chillies, cooking for another minute. Then, add in the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften.

3. Cooking Lentils: Mix in the rinsed lentils and chopped spinach, along with 4 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the lentils are soft. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to achieve your preferred consistency.

5. Finish the Dish: Once cooked, stir in garam masala (if using), adjust seasonings, and let it simmer for a few more minutes.

6. Serve: As with the Instant Pot version, garnish with fresh coriander and perhaps a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve warm with rice or any Indian bread.

Conclusion

Dal Palak is a fantastic way to incorporate more legumes and greens into your diet. With both the Instant Pot and stovetop methods, you can enjoy this delightful dish in no time. It’s not just nutritious; it’s also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy professional or a culinary enthusiast, Dal Palak is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen. Serve it alongside some fragrant basmati rice or fresh naan, and you’ll have a meal that is both delicious and wholesome. Enjoy!