Palak Kadhi: A Delightful Spinach Yogurt Curry
Have you ever tasted Palak Kadhi? It’s a delicious and creamy dish from Indian cuisine that brings together the goodness of spinach and yogurt. This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with nutrition, making it a favorite in many households. Palak Kadhi has roots in the traditional Indian kitchen and showcases the rich culture and culinary heritage of the country.
This dish is popular because it’s easy to make and serves as a comforting meal, especially when served with hot rice or roti. The tangy flavor of the yogurt combined with the earthy taste of spinach is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens for those who might not enjoy eating vegetables!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh Spinach | 2 cups |
| Yogurt | 1 cup |
| Besan (Gram Flour) | 2 tablespoons |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Chili Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cumin Seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ginger (Grated) | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Coriander Leaves (Chopped) | for garnishing |
For those who are lactose intolerant, you can substitute yogurt with coconut yogurt. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, ensure that the besan you use is certified gluten-free.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: Rinse the 2 cups of spinach thoroughly and blanch it in boiling water for about 2 minutes. This helps to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. Once done, drain and cool it, then blend into a smooth paste.
- Mix the Kadhi: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of yogurt and 2 tablespoons of besan until there are no lumps. Add 2 cups of water, along with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder, and salt to taste. Mix well.
- Cook the Kadhi: Pour the yogurt mixture into a pot and cook on medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent curdling. Bring it to a gentle boil and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Once the kadhi has thickened, add the blended spinach paste to it. Mix well and cook for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring that all flavors combine.
- Prepare Tempering: In a small pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and 1/2 teaspoon of mustard seeds. Let them crackle, and then add 1 teaspoon of grated ginger. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Combine: Pour the tempering over the cooked kadhi, mix well, and remove from heat. Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve: Enjoy your Palak Kadhi with steamed rice or warm roti. It’s a perfect meal for any day!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 150 | 7% |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Carbohydrates | 20g | 7% |
| Fats | 5g | 8% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Calcium | 150mg | 15% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert tips to make your cooking process easier and more enjoyable:
- Customize the Spices: You can adjust the amount of red chili powder based on your spice tolerance.
- Fresh vs. Frozen Spinach: If fresh spinach is not available, frozen spinach works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before use.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker kadhi, reduce the water slightly during cooking.
- Avoid Overcooking: When adding the spinach paste, avoid boiling for too long, as it can lose its vibrant color and nutrients.
FAQs
What is Palak Kadhi?
Palak Kadhi is a North Indian dish made from spinach and yogurt, cooked into a creamy curry.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! You can replace yogurt with coconut yogurt to make it vegan.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover kadhi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.
What can I serve with Palak Kadhi?
Palak Kadhi pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, roti, or even naan.
Is Palak Kadhi healthy?
Yes, it is packed with nutrients. Spinach adds vitamins, while yogurt provides probiotics beneficial for digestion.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of red chili powder you use.
Can I use dried spinach instead of fresh?
While fresh spinach is recommended for its flavor and nutrients, you can use dried spinach if rehydrated correctly.
How long does it take to prepare Palak Kadhi?
The total time for preparing Palak Kadhi is about 30-35 minutes.
Is there a special way to season this dish?
The tempering of cumin and mustard seeds at the end adds a fantastic aroma and flavor to the kadhi.
Now that you have this delightful recipe for Palak Kadhi, gather your ingredients, and give it a try. You and your family will love this nutritious and flavorful dish! Happy cooking!
