Dal Palak / Spinach and lentil curry

 

 

Ingredients (Serves 3)

1. Moong dal / cherupayar parippu – 1/2 cup

2. Spinach – 1.5 cup packed

3. Onion – 1/2 small, chopped

   Garlic – 3 – 4, finely chopped

   Green chilies – 2, slit

4. Tomato – 1 small, chopped

5. Turmeric powder – 1/4 tsp

   Chilly powder – 1/2 tsp

6. Garam masala powder – 1/4 tsp (optional)

    Lemon juice – 1 tsp (optional)

7. Salt – To taste

8. Ghee/ butter / oil – 1 tbsp

   Cumin seeds – 1/4 tsp

Method

1. Roast the moong dal at medium heat for 4 – 5 minutes or until slightly golden. Transfer to a pressure cooker, add 2 cups of water and cook for 1 whistle or until done. Set aside.

2. Heat oil in a pan. Splutter cumin seeds. Add onion, garlic and green chilies. Saute until onion turns light golden in color. Add turmeric powder and chilly powder. Saute for a few seconds. Add chopped tomato. Saute for a few minutes and add chopped spinach. Saute until spinach wilts, about 3 – 4 minutes. Add the cooked dal, salt and mix well. Cook covered at low heat for about 8 minutes. If the gravy is very thick, add 1/2 – 1 cup hot water. Add garam masala powder and lemon juice. Mix well. Switch off. Serve with chapatis / rice.