Masala Palak Pav (Spiced Spinach Buns) – Fluffy & Flavorful Indian Buns Recipe

Spinach Buns Recipe (Masala Palak Pav)

Spinach Buns, also known as Masala Palak Pav, are a delightful fusion of soft, fluffy buns infused with the earthy flavors of spinach and aromatic spices. Perfect as a side dish or as a snack, these buns are not only visually appealing with their vibrant green color but also packed with nutrition. The addition of kasuri methi, garam masala, and red chili powder gives these buns an Indian twist that pairs wonderfully with curries, chutneys, or even a cup of tea.

This recipe is ideal for a weekend breakfast or a light dinner option, and it brings a healthy, vegetarian choice to your table, making it a great addition to any meal.

Ingredients:

Preparation Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes

Servings:

2

Cuisine:

Indian

Course:

Side Dish

Diet:

Vegetarian

Instructions:

1. Blanch and Puree the Spinach: Begin by blanching the spinach leaves in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, just until they wilt. Once done, drain and transfer the spinach to an ice-cold water bath to stop the cooking process. Blend the blanched spinach in a mixer to form a smooth puree. Set aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Vivatta Maida (all-purpose flour), salt, sugar, active dry yeast, red chili powder, turmeric powder, kasuri methi, and garam masala. Mix these ingredients thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the spices.

3. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: To the dry mixture, add the spinach puree, egg yolk, and extra virgin olive oil. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together, forming a crumbly dough.

4. Form the Dough: Gradually add milk to the mixture, a little at a time, until a soft dough forms. The dough should not be too sticky but soft and pliable. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until smooth.

5. First Proofing: Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and place it in a warm place. Let it rise for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.

6. Shape the Buns: Once the dough has risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and shape each into a smooth ball.

7. Second Proofing: Arrange the shaped dough balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cover the tray with a cloth and allow the buns to rise again for another 30 minutes, or until they double in size.

8. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the buns have risen, lightly brush the tops of the buns with milk to give them a golden finish during baking. Sprinkle kalonji (nigella seeds) generously over the buns for added flavor and crunch.

9. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the buns for about 22-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the buns are cooked through. You can check by gently tapping the bottom of a bun — it should sound hollow if it’s properly baked.

10. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the buns from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack. Serve these fragrant, soft buns warm.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these delicious Spinach Buns (Masala Palak Pav) alongside Akuri (scrambled spicy eggs) for a fulfilling breakfast, or pair them with your favorite curry or chutney. They also make a great side dish with Adrak Chai (ginger tea), which enhances the flavor of these spicy, soft buns.

These spinach-infused buns are a unique addition to your regular bread basket and are bound to impress both family and guests with their vibrant color and rich taste.

Enjoy your Masala Palak Pav with a cup of chai or any other favorite dipping sauce for a wholesome, vegetarian meal!