Nadir Palak
A classic Kashmiri delight where crisp lotus stem meets a velvety spinach gravy. Spiced with fennel and ginger, this dish brings the unique flavors of the valley right to your kitchen table.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Vegetables
- b.Thoroughly wash the lotus stem slices under running water. Use a small brush to clean inside the holes. Pat them completely dry with a kitchen towel.
- c.Wash the spinach leaves well in a large bowl of water to remove any grit. Drain completely.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Blanch and Puree Spinach
- b.In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water and 1 tsp of salt to a rolling boil.
- c.Add the spinach leaves and blanch for 2-3 minutes, just until they wilt.
- d.Using a slotted spoon, immediately transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice-cold water. This shock preserves its vibrant green color.
- e.Once cooled, squeeze out as much water as possible from the spinach and blend it into a smooth puree in a grinder or blender. Set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Fry the Lotus Stem
- b.Heat the mustard oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadai over medium-high heat. Wait until it becomes very hot and you see light smoke rising; this mellows its pungent flavor.
- c.Carefully slide the lotus stem slices into the hot oil. Fry for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crisp.
- d.Remove the fried lotus stem with a slotted spoon and place on a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Prepare the Gravy
- b.Reduce the heat to low in the same pan with the remaining oil. Add the asafoetida and let it sizzle for 10 seconds.
- c.Add the Kashmiri red chili powder, fennel powder, dry ginger powder, and turmeric powder. Stir for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the spices.
- d.Pour in the spinach puree and mix well. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously.
- e.Add the whisked curd to the pan. Stir vigorously and continuously for 2 minutes to prevent it from curdling and to incorporate it smoothly into the gravy.
- f.Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes until you see specks of oil separating at the edges of the pan.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Simmer and Serve
- b.Add the fried lotus stem slices to the spinach gravy. Stir in 1 tsp of salt and 1 cup of water.
- c.Bring the curry to a gentle simmer. Cover the pan and cook on low heat for 10-12 minutes, allowing the lotus stem to soften slightly and absorb the flavors.
- d.Check the consistency. If it's too thick for your liking, add a splash of hot water. Adjust salt if needed.
- e.Turn off the heat. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve Nadir Palak hot with steamed rice.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, use mustard oil and heat it properly until it's almost smoking before use.
- 2Frying the lotus stem until golden brown is key to its texture; under-frying will leave it raw, and over-frying can make it hard.
- 3Shocking the blanched spinach in ice water is a crucial step to maintain its beautiful green color.
- 4Always add curd on low heat and stir continuously to prevent it from splitting or curdling.
- 5This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully.
Adapt it for your goals.
With Paneer
Add 150g of lightly fried paneer cubes along with the lotus stem for a richer, protein-packed version.
Creamier GravyCreamier Gravy
For a restaurant-style finish, stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh cream or cashew paste at the end of cooking.
With Haak (Collard Greens)With Haak (Collard Greens)
For a different but equally authentic Kashmiri dish, substitute spinach with finely chopped Haak (collard greens). The cooking process will be similar, but Haak may require a slightly longer cooking time.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Iron and Vitamins
Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, providing a significant amount of iron, which is crucial for blood health, as well as vitamins A, C, and K, supporting vision, immunity, and bone health.
Excellent Source of Dietary Fiber
Lotus stem is packed with dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
The use of spices like dry ginger powder and turmeric provides natural anti-inflammatory benefits, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Nadir Palak is a very healthy dish. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins A, C, and K, while lotus stem is an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and essential minerals like potassium and copper. Using mustard oil also provides healthy fats.