Dhaba Style Dal Palak (Spinach Lentil Curry)
Description
Dhaba Style Dal Palak is a traditional North Indian dish made with a combination of lentils (arhar dal) and fresh spinach, creating a comforting and nutritious curry. The fresh spinach lends its vibrant color and distinct flavor to the dal, and the tempering of spices adds an irresistible depth to the dish. Known for its simplicity and quick preparation, this dish is perfect for lunch, especially during the summer months. The addition of ghee and mustard seeds enhances the flavors, making it taste just like the authentic dal served at roadside dhabas in North India.
Cuisine: North Indian
Course: Lunch
Diet: High-Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arhar dal (Toor dal) | 1 cup |
| Spinach (fresh) | 1 cup |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Tomato | 1, finely chopped |
| Green chilies | 3, slit |
| Ginger | 1 tbsp, grated |
| Garlic | 1 tbsp, minced |
| Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Ghee | 1 tbsp |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Mustard seeds | 1/2 tsp |
| Dried red chilies | 2, broken |
| Turmeric powder | 1/4 tsp |
| Red chili powder | 1 tsp |
| Salt | to taste |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | a pinch |
Preparation Time
10 minutes
Cooking Time
30 minutes
Instructions
-
Prepare the Lentils: Start by washing the arhar dal (toor dal) thoroughly 2 to 3 times. After rinsing, soak the dal in water for 20 minutes to soften it. Transfer the soaked dal into a pressure cooker and add enough water, salt, and turmeric powder. Cook the dal for 2 to 3 whistles, ensuring it becomes soft and well-cooked.
-
Prepare the Spinach: Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities. After cleaning, chop the spinach finely and set it aside for later.
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Cook the Tempering: In a large pan, heat 1 tsp of ghee and 1/2 tsp of oil. Add the cumin seeds to the hot oil and cook for about 10 seconds until they begin to splutter. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and sauté them for about a minute until they release their aroma.
-
Cook the Onion and Tomatoes: Add the finely chopped onions and green chilies to the pan. Sauté until the onions turn soft and brown. Once the onions are well-cooked, add the chopped tomatoes and continue cooking until the tomatoes soften and blend into the masala.
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Cook the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the pan, stir well, and let it cook for a few minutes until it wilts. Once the spinach is cooked down, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to the pan. Stir everything together and allow it to cook for another minute to combine the flavors.
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Combine the Dal and Spinach: After the spinach is cooked and the spices are well mixed, add the cooked dal to the spinach mixture. Stir everything together and wash the pressure cooker with a little water, adding this to the pan to mix the dal and spinach well. Let it cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.
-
Prepare the Tempering for Garnish: In a small pan, heat a bit of oil. Add the mustard seeds and cook for about 10 seconds until they start to crackle. Then add the remaining garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown. Add a pinch of asafoetida and the dried red chilies to the oil. Sauté for about 20 seconds and remove from heat.
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Finish the Dal: Pour the hot tempering (tadka) over the dal palak and stir to combine. This adds a burst of flavor and aroma to the dish.
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Serve: Serve the Dhaba Style Dal Palak hot with a side of sev-tomato sabzi and Khuba Roti (or your choice of flatbread). This hearty and flavorful dish makes for an ideal lunch or dinner, especially when paired with other North Indian specialties.
Tips and Variations
- Vegan Option: Skip the ghee and use more oil instead for a vegan version.
- Extra Spice: If you prefer a spicier dal, increase the number of green chilies or red chili powder according to your taste.
- Consistency: You can adjust the consistency of the dal by adding more water, depending on whether you prefer it thicker or thinner.
- Flavors: For extra flavor, garnish with fresh coriander leaves or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 kcal |
| Protein | ~10g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Fat | ~8g |
| Fiber | ~5g |
| Sodium | ~200mg |
Enjoy this wholesome and flavorful Dhaba Style Dal Palak, a perfect combination of healthy spinach and comforting lentils. This dish brings a taste of North India straight to your kitchen, offering a deliciously aromatic meal perfect for any day of the week.
