Dal Palak Rice

Dal Palak Rice is a nutritious Indian dish that combines protein-rich lentils and spinach with aromatic basmati rice. This wholesome meal is not only filling but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

Ingredients

• Basmati rice - 1 cup
• Masoor dal (red lentils) - 1/2 cup
• Fresh spinach - 2 cups, chopped
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Tomato - 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 inch, grated
• Green chili - 1, slit (optional)
• Cumin seeds - 1 teaspoon
• Turmeric powder - 1/2 teaspoon
• Garam masala - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Oil or ghee - 2 tablespoons
• Water - 4 cups

Steps

1. Rinse the basmati rice and masoor dal separately under cold water until the water runs clear. Soak them in water for 15 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and allow them to splutter.
3. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chili. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the chopped tomato and cook until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in turmeric powder and salt.
6. Add the chopped spinach to the pot and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Drain the soaked rice and dal, and add them to the pot. Stir well to combine with the spinach mixture.
8. Pour in the 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice and dal are cooked and the water is absorbed.
9. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
10. Serve hot with a sprinkle of garam masala on top.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 18 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 15 g
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Total Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein from lentils, aiding muscle repair and growth.
• High in fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.

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