How to Make Indian Spinach and Lentil Soup
Indian Spinach and Lentil Soup, also known as Palak Dal, is a wholesome and nutritious dish that combines the flavors of fresh spinach with hearty lentils. This recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect addition to your healthy eating habits.
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2-3 green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- 4 cups water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Lentils
Rinse the red lentils thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove any dirt or impurities. Soak them in water for about 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Lentils
In a large pot, add the soaked lentils and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the lentils are cooked through and soft. You can use a pressure cooker to speed up the process; cook for about 5-7 minutes on medium heat after the first whistle.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
While the lentils are cooking, heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Next, add the diced tomatoes along with turmeric powder and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil begins to separate from the mixture, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Step 5: Mix in Spinach
Add the chopped spinach to the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it wilts down. This will give your soup a vibrant color and a fresh flavor.
Step 6: Combine and Finish the Soup
Once the lentils are cooked, add the sautéed mixture to the pot of lentils. Stir well to combine. Adjust the consistency by adding water if the soup is too thick. Add garam masala and simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Turn off the heat and let the soup sit for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving. This soup pairs beautifully with steamed rice, roti, or naan. Enjoy your healthy bowl of Indian Spinach and Lentil Soup!
Tips for Perfect Palak Dal
- For added protein, consider incorporating diced chicken or tofu into the soup.
- You can adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer green chilies, or by including a pinch of red chili powder.
- Experiment with other greens like kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
This Indian Spinach and Lentil Soup is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a fantastic choice for a nourishing meal. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the health benefits packed in this comforting dish!