Palak Besan Ki Sabji: A Nutritious and Flavorful Delight

Introduction:

Palak Besan Ki Sabji is a delightful and healthy dish from North India that combines the goodness of spinach (palak) with the nutty flavor of gram flour (besan). This dish is not only nutritious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a quick meal. The earthy taste of spinach pairs beautifully with the roasted gram flour, creating a dish that is both wholesome and delicious.

This sabji is a great way to incorporate greens into your diet, especially for those who may not be too fond of spinach. The addition of spices elevates the dish, making it flavorful and satisfying. Whether you're looking for a side dish to complement your main course or a light meal on its own, Palak Besan Ki Sabji is a versatile option that will appeal to everyone.

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Ingredients:

2 cups spinach (palak), washed and finely chopped

1/2 cup gram flour (besan)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2-3 green chilies, slit

1 tsp cumin seeds

1/2 tsp mustard seeds

1/4 tsp asafoetida (hing)

1/2 tsp turmeric powder

1/2 tsp red chili powder

1 tsp coriander powder

1 tsp cumin powder

2 tbsp oil (preferably mustard oil for an authentic taste)

Salt to taste

Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Spinach:

Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Drain the excess water and finely chop the spinach.

Set the chopped spinach aside.

2. Roasting the Gram Flour:

Heat a pan on medium flame and add the gram flour (besan).

Dry roast the besan, stirring continuously to avoid burning, until it turns golden brown and releases a nutty aroma. This should take about 4-5 minutes.

Once roasted, transfer the besan to a plate and set it aside to cool.

3. Making the Sabji:

In the same pan, heat oil on medium flame. If using mustard oil, heat it until it reaches its smoking point and then lower the heat.

Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds to the hot oil. Allow them to splutter.

Add asafoetida (hing) and the slit green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until the chilies release their aroma.

Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Now, add turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. 

Stir well to combine the spices.

Add the chopped spinach to the pan and mix well with the spices. Cook the spinach on medium heat until it wilts and releases water.

4. Adding the Roasted Besan:

Once the spinach is cooked, gradually add the roasted besan to the pan while stirring continuously. This helps in avoiding lumps.

Mix the besan well with the spinach and continue to cook on low heat. The besan will start to absorb the moisture from the spinach and form a thick mixture.

Add salt to taste and continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

5. Final Touches:

Once the besan is well-cooked and the sabji reaches a semi-dry consistency, turn off the heat.

Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Palak Besan Ki Sabji can be served as a side dish with roti, paratha, or naan. It also pairs well with steamed rice or jeera rice for a light and healthy meal.

You can also enjoy this sabji with plain yogurt or raita for added freshness.

Conclusion:

Palak Besan Ki Sabji is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the health benefits of spinach and the protein-rich goodness of gram flour. This dish is perfect for those who want to enjoy a healthy, home-cooked meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The combination of spinach and besan, along with aromatic spices, makes this sabji a wholesome and satisfying option for any meal of the day. Whether you're cooking for yourself or for your family, Palak Besan Ki Sabji is sure to be a hit with its delicious taste and nutritional benefits. Enjoy this green, healthy delight and add a touch of nutrition to your everyday meals!