Palak, a popular Indian spinach puree, is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from soups to curries, and even as a dip. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or something more elaborate, palak recipes have got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious palak recipes that are perfect for every occasion.
From classic comfort foods like Palak Paneer and Creamy Palak Dal, to innovative fusion dishes like Palak Pasta and Palak Chutney, there’s something for everyone on this list. So why not start your culinary journey today? Let’s dive into the wonderful world of palak recipes!
Palak Paneer
A creamy and flavorful Indian dish that combines the richness of paneer (Indian cheese) with the velvety smoothness of spinach puree.
Ingredients:
– 250 gm paneer, cut into small cubes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons cream
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat butter in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Saute until the onion is translucent.
3. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until they wilt.
4. Add paneer cubes and stir gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and coriander powder.
6. Stir in cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Palak Dal
Palak dal, a popular Indian lentil dish, gets a creamy twist with this simple recipe. This comforting and nutritious meal is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup palak puree (spinach and cream)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain the water and cook the lentils in fresh water until they are tender.
2. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in palak puree and cooked lentils. Season with salt to taste.
4. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Palak Chicken Curry
Palak Chicken Curry Recipe
A creamy and flavorful Indian-inspired curry that combines the richness of spinach with tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add spinach, chicken broth, and cream. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Corn Sabzi
Palak Corn Sabzi Recipe
A creamy and flavorful vegetarian dish that combines the goodness of spinach, corn, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons besan (gram flour)
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until they are translucent.
2. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
3. Add the cumin powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Stir well.
4. Add the besan and stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Gradually add the water, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
7. Stir in the spinach leaves and corn kernels. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the spinach is wilted.
8. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Palak Paratha
Get ready to experience the taste of India with this simple and delicious Palak Paratha recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon spinach puree (palak)
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add the lukewarm water to the flour mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Brush the surface with spinach puree, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the edges over to form a triangle or any other shape you prefer.
7. Cook the parathas in a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 30-40 seconds on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1-2 minutes per side
Palak Soup
A creamy and nutritious Indian-inspired soup, Palak Soup is a delicious twist on traditional spinach soup. This recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the earthy flavor of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves
– 2 medium-sized onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium-sized tomato, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chopped spinach, tomato, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if using).
4. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Palak Rice
A classic Indian dish that combines the comfort of rice with the creamy goodness of spinach. Palak Rice is a simple and flavorful recipe perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan, stirring well to combine with the spinach mixture.
6. Add the cumin, salt, and lemon juice (if using). Stir well to combine.
7. Cook over low heat, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Pakora
Palak Pakora is a popular Indian snack made with spinach and chickpea flour, deep-fried to perfection. This recipe yields crispy and flavorful fritters that are perfect for munching on.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chickpea flour
– 1/2 cup spinach puree
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Mix the chickpea flour, spinach puree, baking soda, salt, and cumin seeds in a bowl.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. When the oil is hot, drop tablespoonfuls of the batter into the oil.
5. Fry the pakoras until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Remove the pakoras from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Palak Thepla
A delicious and healthy snack option from India, Palak Thepla is a spinach and potato stuffed flatbread that’s perfect for any time of the day. This recipe yields 8-10 theplas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 cup boiled and mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach puree
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, mashed potatoes, spinach puree, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add ghee or oil and mix until the dough comes together.
3. Gradually add water to form a smooth dough.
4. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal portions.
5. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
6. Cook on a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat for 30-40 seconds on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Palak Puri
Palak Puri Recipe – A Delicious Indian Delight
Palak puri is a popular Indian snack made with spinach and whole wheat flour. This recipe yields crispy and flavorful palak puris that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour and chopped spinach.
2. Add the cumin seeds and salt to the mixture.
3. Gradually add water to form a dough, kneading well for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a ball.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
6. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the palak puris until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
7. Drain excess oil and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Kofta
Palak Kofta Recipe
A flavorful and nutritious Indian-inspired dish, Palak Kofta is a vegetarian delight that combines tender spinach-filled dumplings with aromatic spices and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of paneer (Indian cheese), crumbled
– 1 bunch of fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Creamy tomato sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine spinach leaves, onion, garlic, garam masala powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Add crumbled paneer to the blended mixture and mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly and place on a plate or tray.
5. Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan to shallow-fry the koftas until golden brown.
6. Serve Palak Kofta with creamy tomato sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Chaat
Palak chaat is a popular Indian street food that combines the flavors of spinach, yogurt, and spices. This refreshing snack is perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach puree
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish
– Sev or crispy noodles, for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine spinach puree, yogurt, cumin powder, coriander powder, and garam masala powder.
2. Mix well until the spices are fully incorporated.
3. Add salt to taste.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro.
6. Serve chilled, topped with sev or crispy noodles if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Palak Mushroom Curry
Palak Mushroom Curry: A creamy and flavorful Indian-inspired dish that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the vibrant green color of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add spinach leaves and broth. Bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
8. If using heavy cream or half-and-half, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Aloo Sabzi
This classic North Indian dish is a staple of many households, and for good reason – the combination of creamy spinach, tender potatoes, and aromatic spices is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch fresh spinach (about 2 cups)
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Add cumin, turmeric, and garam masala; let them sizzle for 10 seconds.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add diced potatoes and stir well. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until they are half-cooked.
6. Add fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
7. Season with salt to taste.
8. If desired, add heavy cream and stir well.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Palak Bhurji
A popular Indian breakfast dish, Palak Bhurji is a flavorful and nutritious scrambled egg dish made with spinach, onions, garlic, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter or oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter or oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them with the spinach mixture.
6. Add the cumin powder, salt, and a pinch of black pepper (optional).
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your liking.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Palak Kadhi
Palak Kadhi Recipe: A Delicious Spinach Curry from Gujarat
Palak Kadhi is a popular Gujarati curry made with spinach, yogurt, and spices. This creamy and flavorful dish is often served with roti or rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for another minute.
4. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together yogurt and spices (cumin, turmeric, chili powder, and salt).
6. Add the yogurt mixture to the pan with the spinach mixture; stir well.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the curry thickens slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Palak Dosa
A popular South Indian dish, Palak Dosa is a vibrant green dosa made with spinach puree and crispy rice flour crepes. This recipe yields a delicious and easy-to-make dosa perfect for breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup rice flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
Instructions:
1. Blend the spinach leaves with 1/4 cup of water until smooth.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the spinach puree to the dry mixture and mix well.
4. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a thick batter.
5. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
6. Pour a ladle of the batter onto the pan and spread evenly.
7. Drizzle ghee or oil around the dosa.
8. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl.
9. Flip and cook for another minute.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Palak Raita
Palak raita is a popular Indian yogurt-based side dish that pairs perfectly with spicy curries or as a refreshing snack. This creamy recipe combines the flavors of spinach, garlic, and cumin to create a delicious and healthy accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine yogurt, spinach, garlic, and cumin.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Serve: With your favorite Indian dishes or as a snack on its own.
Palak Pasta
Palak Pasta Recipe
A creamy and nutritious pasta dish that combines the flavors of spinach, garlic, and ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Stir in the cooked spinach mixture with garlic.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Palak Chutney
A vibrant green chutney made with spinach, spices, and a hint of garlic, Palak Chutney is a popular condiment in Indian cuisine. Perfect for accompanying snacks or as a dip for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
• Salt, to taste
• 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine spinach, garlic, onion, ginger, and lemon juice.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Heat the cumin seeds in a small pan over low heat for 30 seconds, then let cool.
4. Add the cooled cumin seeds and salt to the blender or food processor.
5. Blend until well combined and the chutney is smooth.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of palak with these 20 delicious recipes! From classic Palak Paneer to innovative Palak Pasta, and from comforting Palak Dal to flavorful Palak Chicken Curry. This collection also features sweet treats like Palak Pakora and savory snacks like Palak Thepla. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty main course or a refreshing side dish, there’s something for every occasion. Get ready to spice up your cooking with these mouth-watering palak recipes that are sure to become new favorites!
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