Spinach Dal (palakura Pappu)

Spinach Dal, also known as Palakura Pappu, is a traditional and nutritious dish from Telugu Cuisine. This flavorful lentil and spinach stew is a popular comfort food in South India, packed with protein and vitamins.

Spinach Dal (palakura Pappu)

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Toor dal (split pigeon peas)
  • 3 cups water
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 4 green chilies, slit
  • 1 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp mustard seeds
  • 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash the toor dal and pressure cook with water, turmeric powder, and salt for 3-4 whistles until soft and mushy.
  2. In a separate pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Once they splutter, add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
  3. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent. Then, add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft.
  4. Add the chopped spinach and cook until it wilts.
  5. Mash the cooked dal and add it to the spinach mixture. Add red chili powder and adjust salt as needed. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
  6. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot with steamed rice or roti.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
15 minutes
Cooking time:
30 minutes
Total time:
45 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
200 per serving
Protein
15g
Carbohydrates
30g
Fiber
8g
Fat
5g

Supplies

Pressure Cooker Saucepan Frying Pan

Tools

Knife Cutting Board Measuring Spoons

Serving suggestions

Serve Spinach Dal with steamed rice, ghee, and a side of pickle for a wholesome meal.

Tips & tricks

To enhance the flavor, you can also add a dollop of ghee while serving.

Cost

$8