How to Make Spinach Curry (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Spinach Curry, known as Palak Curry across North India, is a vibrant and wholesome vegetarian dish that celebrates the rich flavors of fresh spinach (palak) and aromatic Indian spices. This classic curry is a staple in Punjabi households, often enjoyed with piping hot phulkas or jeera rice. With its creamy texture and subtle spice, Spinach Curry offers a comforting meal that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying. Spinach Curry holds a special place in Indian cuisine, especially during winter months when fresh greens are abundant in local markets. It is not only a popular everyday lunch but also makes frequent appearances during festivals such as Navratri and Holi, where light and sattvic meals are preferred. The dish is remarkably adaptable, with regional variations in the use of spices and sometimes the addition of paneer (paneer palak) or potatoes (aloo palak). Its simple preparation, rich taste, and health benefits make Spinach Curry a beloved choice for all age groups, perfect for those seeking authentic Indian flavors in a health-conscious way.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Blanch the spinach leaves in boiling water for 2 minutes
Blanch the spinach leaves in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately transfer them to ice-cold water to retain their green color.
Step 2 · Drain the spinach and blend it into a smooth puree using a mixer or...
Drain the spinach and blend it into a smooth puree using a mixer or hand blender.
Step 3 · Heat mustard oil in a kadhai or deep pan
Heat mustard oil in a kadhai or deep pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Step 4 · Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown
Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in ginger-garlic paste and green chilli; sauté for another minute.
Step 5 · Add chopped tomatoes
Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric, and coriander powder. Cook until tomatoes turn soft and oil separates.
Step 6 · Stir in the spinach puree and salt
Stir in the spinach puree and salt. Cook on low-medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 7 · Optional: Mix in low-fat curd for extra creaminess
Optional: Mix in low-fat curd for extra creaminess. Cook for 1 more minute and turn off heat.
Step 8 · Serve hot with whole wheat rotis
Serve hot with whole wheat rotis, phulkas, or steamed rice.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Spinach Curry recipe is ideal for a health-conscious diet, utilizing fresh greens, minimal oil, and no heavy cream. It supports weight management, is diabetic-friendly, and is high in vitamins and minerals. By avoiding refined ingredients and including whole foods, it fits perfectly in balanced Indian meals. The dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by omitting curd.
A note on tradition
In North India, especially Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, Spinach Curry is a favorite winter dish, thanks to the seasonal abundance of fresh palak. It is often prepared during Navratri and other Hindu festivals when vegetarian and sattvic meals are preferred. The dish symbolizes the Indian ethos of incorporating seasonal and local produce into daily meals, and is enjoyed across generations for its taste and health benefits.