Spinach Tambuli (Palak Tambuli) – A Flavorful South Indian Dish
Palak Tambuli, a traditional dish from Karnataka, is a refreshing and healthy yogurt-based side dish. This delightful recipe is a perfect blend of fresh spinach, creamy yogurt, and a touch of spice, making it a great accompaniment for rice or as a side with your favorite meal. Rich in nutrients and packed with flavors, this recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also serves as a light and nutritious addition to your lunch or dinner table.
This dish belongs to the tambuli family, a yogurt-based dish that can be prepared with various vegetables. Spinach is commonly used in tambuli for its health benefits, and when combined with roasted spices, it results in a mildly tangy, creamy, and aromatic dish that is just irresistible.
Ingredients for Spinach Tambuli
| Ingredients | Quantity | Ingredients (Translated) | Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| पालक (Spinach) | 15 leaves | Spinach | 15 leaves |
| जीरा (Cumin seeds) | 1 teaspoon | Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| काली मिर्च (Black pepper) | 3 whole pieces | Black pepper | 3 whole pieces |
| हरी मिर्च (Green chilies) | 2 | Green chilies | 2 |
| नारियल (Grated coconut) | 1/4 cup | Grated coconut | 1/4 cup |
| दही (Yogurt – Sour or Chas) | 1 cup | Yogurt (sour or buttermilk) | 1 cup |
| घी (Ghee) | 1 teaspoon | Ghee | 1 teaspoon |
| नमक (Salt) | To taste | Salt | To taste |
| राइ (Mustard seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon | Mustard seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| जीरा (Cumin seeds) | 1/2 teaspoon | Cumin seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| कढ़ी पत्ता (Curry leaves) | A few leaves | Curry leaves | A few leaves |
| सुखी लाल मिर्च (Dry red chili) | 1 | Dry red chili | 1 |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Karnataka
Course: Lunch
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Instructions for Making Spinach Tambuli
-
Prepare the Spinach:
Start by washing the spinach leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities. Once cleaned, chop the spinach into small pieces. -
Roast the Spices:
Heat 1 teaspoon of ghee in a frying pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, black pepper, and green chilies to the pan. Let them cook for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to release their fragrance and flavors. Once done, turn off the heat and set the roasted spices aside to cool down. -
Grind the Mixture:
In a mixer or blender, add the cooled roasted spices, grated coconut, salt, and a little water. Grind all the ingredients into a smooth paste. You may need to add a bit more water to achieve the right consistency. Once done, transfer the paste to a mixing bowl. -
Add Yogurt:
To the ground mixture, add 1 cup of sour yogurt (or buttermilk). Stir the mixture well until everything is nicely combined. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little more water to adjust the consistency. The final result should be a smooth, pourable consistency. -
Temper the Ingredients:
In a small tempering pan, heat 1 teaspoon of ghee. Once hot, add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, curry leaves, and a dry red chili. Let the spices fry for about 20 seconds, allowing them to sizzle and release their flavors. -
Combine the Tempering:
Pour the hot tempering mixture into the prepared spinach and yogurt blend. Stir well to ensure the tempering is evenly mixed into the tambuli. -
Serve:
Serve the palak tambuli immediately while it’s fresh and aromatic. It pairs wonderfully with steaming hot rice and a side of chow chow thoran (a mixed vegetable dish) for a wholesome meal.
Tips for Making the Perfect Spinach Tambuli:
- Yogurt Type: Use sour yogurt for a tangy taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can opt for buttermilk (chaas).
- Spice Adjustments: If you like a spicier tambuli, you can add more green chilies or increase the amount of black pepper. Alternatively, reduce the heat for a milder version.
- Consistency: You can adjust the consistency of the tambuli based on your preference. If you like it thinner, add more water or buttermilk.
- Storage: This dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to a day. Stir well before serving again.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 100 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Calcium | 80mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
Why You Should Try Palak Tambuli:
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Nutrient-Rich: Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron and folate. Combined with yogurt, it makes for a highly nutritious dish that boosts your immunity and keeps you energized.
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Digestive Benefits: Yogurt in tambuli helps with digestion and provides probiotics, while the spices like cumin and mustard seeds are known for their digestive properties.
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Quick & Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a nutritious side dish without spending too much time in the kitchen.
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Versatile: While traditionally served with rice, this tambuli can also be paired with roti, chapati, or even as a dip for crackers or vegetables.
Enjoy the flavors of Karnataka with this easy-to-make Palak Tambuli recipe. It’s a delightful dish that’s both comforting and packed with nutrition, making it a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Whether served with rice or as a side dish, it’s sure to be loved by everyone at the table.
