Dal Palak | Spinach & Lentil Curry

Quick & easy way to prepare lentil along with spinach, which pairs well with homemade roti or phulkas. Excellent dish for those who are on diet or for those who are looking for a healthy dinner option.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup urad dal | black lentil
• 2 cups of chopped spinach leaves
• 1 medium onion 
• 1 small tomato
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp grated garlic
• 2 green chilies
• 1 tsp whole cumin
• 2 dry red chilies
• 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
• 2 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped coriander leaves
• 1/4 tsp garam masala powder
• Salt
• 4 to 5 tbsp of cooking oil

Preparation:

• Wash and soak 1 cup urad dal for 15 minutes.
• Finely chop 1 onion, 1 tomato, coriander leaves and green chilies.
• Grated ginger and garlic.

Method:

1. Boil soaked urad dal in water along with salt, till it is cooked and yet whole and firm. Do not overcook the lentils. Strain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a sauce pan and add 1 tsp whole cumin and dry red chilies. Then add grated ginger & garlic. After few seconds add chopped onion and saute till light golden.
3. Add chopped tomato, chopped green chilies, 1/4 tsp turmeric powder and 2 tsp red chili powder. Cook till tomatoes are soft and everything is well combined (5 minutes).
4. Now add chopped spinach, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/4 tsp garam masala powder and salt. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes covered.
5. Finally add boiled lentils and stir gently. Add some water if needed. Cover and cook on low flame for 5 minutes.
6. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and some ghee.
7. Serve hot.