Palak Kadhi is a delightful and nutritious dish from Indian cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavor and health benefits. This spinach-based curry is made using palak (spinach) and kadhi (a yogurt-based sauce), combining wholesome ingredients that create a unique taste profile. The dish is often spiced with traditional Indian seasonings, making it a favorite in households across the country.
Palak Kadhi is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a healthy meal.”
Its popularity stems from its versatile nature, as it pairs well with rice or roti, and is often enjoyed during family gatherings and festive occasions. Whether you are a seasoned cook or trying your hand at Indian cuisine for the first time, Palak Kadhi is sure to impress with its vibrant color and satisfying flavors.
Palak Kadhi: A Delicious Indian Delight
Palak Kadhi is a delightful dish that combines the goodness of spinach (palak) with a tangy yogurt-based gravy. Originating from the Indian subcontinent, this dish is a unique variation of the traditional kadhi, which is typically made with chickpea flour and yogurt. The addition of palak not only enhances its nutritional value but also imparts a vibrant green color, making it as appealing visually as it is delicious. This dish is often enjoyed with steamed rice or roti, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.
Preparation
History
The roots of kadhi can be traced back to the western Indian states of Gujarat and Rajasthan, where it has been a staple for centuries. The combination of yogurt and spices has been a part of Indian culinary traditions, cherished for its probiotic benefits and flavor. The incorporation of palak into kadhi is a modern twist that highlights the versatility of regional ingredients and modern adaptations in Indian cooking.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spinach (Palak) | 2 cups, chopped |
| Yogurt | 1 cup |
| Gram flour (Besan) | 2 tablespoons |
| Turmeric powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red chili powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | to taste |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Mustard seeds | 1 teaspoon |
| Asafoetida (Hing) | 1 pinch |
| Green chilies | 2, chopped |
| Ginger | 1 inch, grated |
| Water | 2-3 cups |
| Oil or Ghee | 2 tablespoons |
| Coriander leaves | for garnishing |
Steps to Prepare Palak Kadhi
- Preparation of Spinach: Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly under running water. Chop them finely and set aside.
- Make Yogurt Mixture: In a bowl, whisk the yogurt until smooth. Add the gram flour, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well to combine.
- Cook Spinach: In a pot, add a little water (about 1 cup) and bring it to a boil. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until it wilts. Drain excess water if needed.
- Combine Yogurt and Spinach: Slowly add the whisked yogurt mixture to the pot with spinach, stirring continuously to prevent curdling. Add additional water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Simmer the Kadhi: Cook the mixture on low heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking, until it thickens slightly.
- Tempering: In a separate small pan, heat oil or ghee. Add cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and asafoetida. Once they splutter, add chopped green chilies and grated ginger. Sauté for a minute.
- Combine with Kadhi: Pour the tempering over the simmering kadhi and mix well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped coriander leaves and serve hot with steamed rice or roti.
Enjoy your homemade Palak Kadhi that beautifully blends flavors and nutrition for a wholesome meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Palak Kadhi?
Palak Kadhi is a traditional Indian dish made with spinach (palak) and gram flour (besan) in a yogurt-based gravy.
How is Palak Kadhi prepared?
The dish is prepared by cooking spinach and combining it with a spiced yogurt mixture, thickened with gram flour.
What are the main ingredients of Palak Kadhi?
The main ingredients include spinach, yogurt, gram flour, and a variety of spices such as cumin and turmeric.
Is Palak Kadhi vegetarian?
Yes, Palak Kadhi is a vegetarian dish and is suitable for those following a vegetarian diet.
Can I make Palak Kadhi dairy-free?
Yes, you can use plant-based yogurt alternatives to make a dairy-free version of Palak Kadhi.
What can I serve with Palak Kadhi?
Palak Kadhi is commonly served with steamed rice or roti for a complete meal.
Is Palak Kadhi healthy?
Yes, Palak Kadhi is nutritious as it contains spinach, which is rich in vitamins and minerals, and yogurt, which is good for digestion.
How spicy is Palak Kadhi?
The spice level of Palak Kadhi can be adjusted according to personal taste; it typically features a mild to moderate spice from the spices used.
Can I add other vegetables to Palak Kadhi?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots or peas for added flavor and nutrition.
How long does it take to cook Palak Kadhi?
Preparation and cooking of Palak Kadhi usually take about 30 to 45 minutes.
Can Palak Kadhi be stored?
Yes, Palak Kadhi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days; reheat before serving.
Is Palak Kadhi gluten-free?
Yes, Palak Kadhi is gluten-free as long as you ensure the gram flour used is certified gluten-free.
What is the difference between Palak Kadhi and regular Kadhi?
The main difference lies in the addition of spinach in Palak Kadhi, which enhances flavor and nutritional content compared to regular Kadhi.
