Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dal Palak
- Rinse the chana dal and masoor dal under cold running water until the water runs clear, then drain well. Soak the chana dal for about 30 minutes.
- Wash the fresh spinach thoroughly, dry using a salad spinner or paper towels, and chop finely.
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced yellow onions, stirring for 20-25 minutes until golden brown. Reserve half for later.
- Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds to the remaining onions, sauté until spluttering. Mix in 2-3 grated garlic cloves and 1-2 dried red chilies, stirring until garlic turns golden.
- Return the reserved onions to the pot, stir in 1 teaspoon of chili powder and 1 chopped tomato. Cook until tomatoes soften, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add 1 tablespoon of ginger, 1 chopped green chili, ½ teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, and 1 teaspoon of garam masala. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in soaked lentils and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for about 30 minutes until creamy.
- Once lentils are tender, stir in chopped spinach, half the reserved oil, and cilantro. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes, then add lemon juice and adjust salt.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with remaining onion-oil, cilantro, and a drizzle of ghee if desired. Serve hot with rice or naan.
Nutrition
Notes
Soak chana dal beforehand for a shorter cooking time. Sauté onions until deeply golden to enhance sweetness. Adjust consistency with water if needed.
