Dal Palak Recipe (Spinach Dal Recipe)

Looking to make a comforting, nutritious dish? Dal palak, or spinach dal, is the perfect recipe to try. 

Made with yellow moong dal and a handful of simple ingredients, this dish is packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. 

Whether you’re serving it with rice or flatbreads, it’s a wholesome meal that’s quick to prepare and satisfying to enjoy.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make dal palak, including tips for preparation, storage, and serving. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dal palak recipe is simple, flavorful, and easy to make. Unlike many dal recipes that require a long list of spices, this version relies on just a few, allowing the natural flavors of the spinach and moong dal to shine.

Here’s why you’ll want to try it:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from the dal and vitamins from the spinach, it’s a healthy addition to your meal rotation.
• Meal Prep Friendly: You can batch-cook this recipe and enjoy it throughout the week. Simply pair it with rice for an easy, portable lunch.

Ingredients for Spinach Dal

To make dal palak, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• ¾ cup yellow moong dal: The star ingredient. You can also use toor dal or masoor dal for variation.
• 2 cups water: For cooking the dal.
• 2 tablespoons oil: For sautéing.
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds: Adds a warm, nutty flavor.
• 2 teaspoons ginger paste: Or freshly grated ginger.
• 2 teaspoons garlic paste: Or freshly minced garlic.
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped: Adjust to taste for spice.
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped: For a flavorful base.
• ¼ teaspoon red chili powder: Optional, for extra heat.
• 1½ cups spinach, chopped: Fresh and vibrant greens.
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice: Enhances the flavor.
• Salt to taste: To balance the dish.

Feel free to customize the recipe based on what you have on hand. You can substitute lime juice for lemon or mix in other lentils for a twist.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dal Palak

Step 1: Prepare the Dal

Start by washing the moong dal thoroughly. Rinse it under cold water in a colander or a bowl until the water runs clear. Add the washed dal and 2 cups of water to a pressure cooker.

Cook on medium heat for 2 whistles, then turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. Once the pressure is released, open the lid and set the cooked dal aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

While the dal is cooking, heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.

Stir in the ginger, garlic, and green chilies, and sauté for 30–40 seconds until the raw aroma fades. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt, and cook until the onions are soft and translucent.

Step 3: Add Spinach and Spices

Mix in the turmeric and red chili powder, then add the chopped spinach. Stir everything together and cook for 1–2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts. Be careful not to overcook the spinach, as it can lose its color and nutrients.

Step 4: Combine the Dal and Simmer

Transfer the cooked moong dal to the pan with the spinach mixture. Add water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.

Stir everything together and let it simmer for 4–5 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the dal from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice and Serve

Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the dal palak hot with basmati rice, pulao, or your favorite flatbread.

Tips for Making the Perfect Dal Palak

To ensure your dal palak turns out just right every time, here are some practical tips:

• Add Tomatoes for Depth: If you love a slightly tangy flavor, toss in chopped tomatoes after sautéing the onions. Let them cook until soft and mushy before adding the spices.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Not a fan of heat? Reduce the green chilies or skip the red chili powder. Prefer it spicier? Add extra chili to suit your taste.
• Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Spinach only needs a minute or two to wilt. Cooking it too long can dull its bright green color and reduce its nutrients.
• Consistency is Key: Dal tends to thicken as it cools, so if you’re planning to store leftovers, keep the consistency slightly thinner when cooking.
• Lemon is a Must: Don’t skip the lemon juice! It adds a fresh, tangy flavor that ties the dish together beautifully.

How to Store Spinach Dal

Spinach dal stores well, making it ideal for meal prep. Follow these tips for best results:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. Add a little water when reheating to restore its consistency.
• Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

How to Serve Spinach Dal

Dal palak is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various sides:

• Classic Pairing with Rice: Serve it with steamed basmati rice for a comforting, balanced meal. If you’re in the mood for something special, try it with mild pulao like peas or corn pulao.
• Flatbreads: Scoop up the dal with soft roti or flaky paratha for a traditional Indian meal.
• Salads for Contrast: Pair with a refreshing kachumber salad made from onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. For a warm option, try carrot sambharo, a simple stir-fry of carrots and green chilies.
• Experiment and Enjoy: Dal palak also works wonderfully as a light soup on its own. Don’t hesitate to mix and match until you find your favorite pairing.

Final Thoughts

Spinach dal palak is a wholesome and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrition. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or batch-cooking for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

With its minimal spices and hearty flavors, it’s a comforting meal that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

We hope you enjoy this recipe. For more Indian-inspired dishes and cooking tips, check out our other posts and get inspired to create something new!

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