Welcome Lykkers! Now let us try some palak puri which is a vibrant and healthy variation of the traditional Indian puri, infused with spinach (palak) to give it a unique flavor and bright green color.
This delicious dish combines the crispiness of deep-fried puris with the nutritional benefits of spinach, making it an appealing option for both everyday meals and special occasions.
What Is Palak Puri?
Palak puri or palak poori is a type of Indian bread made from whole wheat flour and pureed spinach, along with a blend of spices for added flavor. The dough is rolled into small circles and deep-fried to create puffed, golden-green puris. The addition of spinach not only enhances the visual appeal of the dish but also boosts its nutritional value, making it a healthier alternative to regular puris.
Palak Puri | Sanjeev Kapoor Khazana
Video by Sanjeev Kapoor Khazana
Nutritional Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and magnesium. It is also high in antioxidants, which help combat inflammation and support overall health. By incorporating spinach into the puri dough, palak puri offers added fiber and essential vitamins, making it a great option for families looking to include more greens in their diet.
Ingredients Needed for Palak Puri
Whole wheat flour: The base of the puri, provides a nutty flavor and fiber.
Spinach: Fresh spinach leaves, washed and blanched before being pureed.
Spices: Commonly used spices include cumin powder, ajwain (carom seeds), and a pinch of turmeric for an earthy taste.
Green chilies and ginger: For an added kick and depth of flavor.
Salt: To taste.
Oil: For deep frying and, optionally, a small amount for the dough.
How to Make Palak Puri?
1. Prepare the spinach puree: Wash and blanch the spinach leaves in hot water for a minute. Drain the leaves and blend them into a smooth puree along with green chilies and ginger for an aromatic base.
2. Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, cumin powder, ajwain, and salt. Add the spinach puree gradually, mixing it with the flour until it forms a dough. Knead well to ensure that the dough is soft but not sticky. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
3. Shape the puris: Divide the dough into small, equal-sized balls. Roll each ball into a thin, circular disc using a rolling pin, ensuring the puris are not too thick or too thin.
4. Fry the puris: Heat oil in a deep pan or kadhai over medium-high heat. Gently slide the rolled puris into the hot oil and fry them until they puff up and turn slightly golden-green. Flip them once to cook both sides evenly. Remove the puris from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Palak puri pairs well with a variety of side dishes and condiments. It is commonly served with:
Aloo sabzi: A spiced potato curry that complements the mild taste of the puris.
Yogurt raita: A cooling accompaniment made with fresh yogurt, cucumbers, or boondi.
Pickles and chutneys: For those who enjoy tangy and spicy flavors, especially served with green mint chutney.
Variations to Try
While the classic palak puri is loved for its simplicity, there are several variations you can experiment with:
Masala palak puri: Add more spices like garam masala, coriander powder, or red chili powder to the dough for a spicier version.
Stuffed palak puri: Fill the puris with spiced mashed potatoes or paneer before rolling them out for a heartier option.
Gluten-free palak puri: Use a combination of gluten-free flour such as chickpea flour and rice flour for those with dietary restrictions.
Health Considerations
While palak puri is deep-fried, making it more calorie-dense than some other bread options, the addition of spinach provides an extra layer of nutrition. For a lighter version, consider shallow frying or baking the puris, though the texture may differ from traditional deep-frying.
Palak puri is a beautiful blend of taste, color, and nutrition, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Whether served as a breakfast item, lunch accompaniment, or festive dish, it brings a touch of health and a burst of flavor to the table. If you're looking to add variety to your meals while incorporating more greens into your diet, palak puri is a dish worth trying.
