Palak Pulao Recipe
Description:
Palak Pulao is a delightful Indian rice dish infused with the goodness of spinach, making it not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. This vibrant pulao is seasoned with a blend of spices, making it a perfect choice for lunch or dinner. Serve it with refreshing sides like boondi raita, kachumber salad, and papad for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rice | 2 cups |
| Spinach (washed and chopped) | 200 grams |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Ginger (grated) | 1 teaspoon |
| Tomato puree | 1 |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Sambar powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Garam masala powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Ghee or til oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250-300 |
| Protein | 5-7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 45-50 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 3-4 grams |
| Fat | 8-10 grams |
| Sodium | Depends on salt added |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Instructions
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Heat the Oil: Begin by heating the ghee (or til oil) in a large pan or kadhai over medium heat.
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Sauté the Spices: Add the cumin seeds and grated ginger to the hot oil. Sauté for about 10 seconds until fragrant.
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Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the tomato puree and turmeric powder. Cook this mixture until the tomatoes soften, releasing their juices and flavors.
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Incorporate Spinach: Once the tomatoes are tender, add the chopped spinach along with salt. Cover the pan and let the spinach cook down until it’s completely wilted.
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Cook Off the Water: After the spinach has softened, increase the heat to high to evaporate any excess water released by the spinach.
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Combine with Rice: Gently fold in the pre-cooked rice along with the sambar powder and additional salt as needed. Mix everything well so that the rice is evenly coated with the spinach mixture.
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Final Cooking: Reduce the heat back to low, cover the pan, and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve Hot: Remove the cover, give the mixture one last gentle stir, and turn off the heat. Serve the Palak Pulao hot, accompanied by boondi raita, kachumber salad, and crispy papad for an inviting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Palak Pulao pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it alongside:
- Boondi Raita: A yogurt-based dish with crispy gram flour balls that cools and complements the spices of the pulao.
- Kachumber Salad: A refreshing salad made from diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a splash of lemon juice.
- Papad: Crisp, thin wafers that add crunch and texture to your meal.
This nutritious and colorful Palak Pulao is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome meal that will delight your taste buds, making it a fantastic choice for both everyday dining and special occasions. Enjoy every bite!
