Garlic Aloo Palak Sabzi
A comforting and healthy Punjabi-style dry curry featuring tender potatoes and vibrant spinach, generously flavored with garlic and aromatic spices. A perfect side dish for rotis or dal rice, ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
TIPHaving all your ingredients prepped and ready makes the cooking process smooth and quick. - 2
Step 2
- a.Heat oil in a large pan or kadai over medium heat.
- b.Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for about 30 seconds.
- c.Add the chopped garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- d.Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy, about 4-5 minutes.
- b.Add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for another minute.
- c.Add the cubed potatoes and toss to coat them evenly with the masala.
- d.Pour in 1/4 cup of water, cover the pan, and cook on low heat for 8-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender but not mushy.
TIPStir occasionally to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pan. - 4
Step 4
- a.Add the chopped spinach to the pan. It will look like a lot, but it will wilt down.
- b.Mix everything gently and cook uncovered for 3-4 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the excess moisture has evaporated.
- c.Sprinkle the garam masala over the top and give it a final mix.
TIPAvoid overcooking the spinach to retain its vibrant green color and nutrients. - 5
Step 5
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a brighter green color, you can blanch the spinach in hot water for 2 minutes and then plunge it into ice-cold water before chopping.
- 2Don't overcook the spinach, as it can become dark and lose its texture.
- 3Using baby potatoes can add a lovely texture and they cook faster.
- 4Feel free to adjust the amount of green chilies and red chili powder to suit your spice preference.
- 5A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors of the dish.
Adapt it for your goals.
Healthy
To make it even healthier, reduce the amount of oil to 1 tablespoon and add more spinach.
high proteinHigh protein
For a protein boost, add 100g of crumbled paneer or firm tofu along with the spinach.
jainJain
Omit the onion, garlic, and ginger. Use a pinch of asafoetida (hing) in the tempering for flavor.
quickQuick
Use pre-boiled potatoes to cut down the cooking time significantly. Add them after the tomatoes are cooked and proceed with the recipe.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Iron
Spinach is a powerhouse of iron, which is crucial for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia.
Good Source of Energy
Potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy to keep you active throughout the day.
Boosts Immunity
The generous amount of garlic, along with other spices like turmeric, has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help boost your immune system.
Rich in Vitamins
This dish is packed with vitamins like Vitamin A, C, and K from spinach, which are important for vision, skin health, and bone health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a very healthy dish. Spinach is an excellent source of iron, vitamins, and minerals, while potatoes provide essential carbohydrates for energy. The use of garlic and other spices also adds to its health benefits.