Aloo Palak, a comforting and flavorful dish from North Indian cuisine, celebrates the beautiful union of spinach (palak) and potatoes (aloo). With its roots deeply embedded in the vibrant tapestry of Indian culinary traditions, Aloo Palak offers a delightful blend of earthy flavors and nourishing ingredients.

What is Aloo Palak?

Aloo Palak is a vegetarian dish that brings together tender spinach leaves and soft potato cubes in a luscious, aromatic gravy. The spinach contributes a vibrant green color and a wealth of nutrients, while the potatoes impart a comforting texture and soak up the flavors of the spices, creating a delectable medley of tastes in each bite.

Ingredients for Serving 4:

• 3 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped
• 3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or ghee
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Method/Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Base for Gravy

1. Heat oil/ghee in a pan and add cumin seeds. Let them splutter.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
4. Incorporate chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil separates.

Step 2: Add Potatoes and Spice Mix

1. Add cubed potatoes to the cooked mixture and stir well.
2. Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and garam masala. Mix thoroughly.
3. Cover the pan and cook for 8-10 minutes until the potatoes are partially cooked.

Step 3: Introduce Spinach and Simmer

1. Add chopped spinach to the partially cooked potatoes.
2. Mix well, ensuring the spinach wilts and combines with the potatoes.
3. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the spinach is fully cooked.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the aromatic Aloo Palak to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for added freshness.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~200 kcal
• Protein: ~4g
• Fat: ~8g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g

Fiber: ~5g