Palak Shorba
A light, velvety spinach soup, gently spiced with cumin and ginger. This comforting Indian shorba is packed with nutrients, naturally dairy-free, and perfect for a soothing, gut-friendly meal.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Heat oil in a deep pot or pressure cooker over medium heat.
- b.Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for about 30 seconds.
- c.Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- d.Stir in the grated ginger and minced garlic. Cook for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
TIPKeep the heat on medium to prevent the garlic from burning, which can make the soup bitter. - 2
Step 2
- a.Add the chopped tomato to the pot.
- b.Sprinkle in the turmeric powder and coriander powder.
- c.Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes become soft and mushy.
- 3
Step 3
- 4
Step 4
TIPIf using a regular blender, be careful when blending hot liquids. Blend in batches and leave the lid's vent open, covering it with a kitchen towel to allow steam to escape. - 5
Step 5
- a.Pour the blended spinach puree back into the pot.
- b.Add 3 cups of water and stir well. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
- c.Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust the consistency with more water if you prefer a thinner soup.
- d.Stir in the salt, garam masala, and fresh lemon juice.
- 6
Step 6
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the brightest green color, avoid overcooking the spinach. Just wilt it and then blend.
- 2Don't skip the lemon juice at the end; it brightens up the flavors and helps with iron absorption from the spinach.
- 3For a creamier texture without dairy, you can add 1/4 cup of soaked cashews while blending.
- 4This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add 1/4 cup of washed red lentils (masoor dal) along with the tomatoes. The lentils will cook down and add protein and thickness to the soup.
kid friendlyKid friendly
To make it creamier and milder for kids, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of coconut cream or a small boiled and blended potato at the end.
quickQuick
Use 300g of frozen chopped spinach instead of fresh. Add it directly to the pot after cooking the tomatoes and cook until thawed.
healthyHealthy
For extra fiber and nutrients, add a handful of chopped mint leaves along with the spinach.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Iron
Spinach is an excellent source of iron, which is crucial for producing red blood cells and preventing anemia.
Supports Eye Health
Loaded with Vitamin A and antioxidants like lutein, spinach helps protect your eyes and maintain good vision.
Hydrating and Digestive Aid
With its high water content and fiber, this soup aids in hydration and promotes healthy digestion, making it very gentle on the gut.
Low in Calories
This shorba is very low in calories, making it a perfect choice for weight management and a light, guilt-free meal.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Palak Shorba is very healthy. It's low in calories and fat, rich in iron, Vitamin A, and Vitamin K from spinach. It's also hydrating and easy to digest, making it an excellent choice for a light meal.