Palak Chole is a delicious and wholesome twist on the traditional Chole Masala. This vibrant dish combines the goodness of chickpea curry with the nutrient-rich flavors of spinach, making it both tasty and healthy. The rich green hue of palak (spinach) blends beautifully with the hearty texture of chana gravy, creating a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Whether served with rice, roti, or naan, this flavorful dish is a great way to enjoy protein-packed chickpeas with a fresh, herby touch.
Unlike regular Chana Masala, which has a deep and bold spice profile, Palak Chole offers a milder yet equally aromatic taste. The addition of blanched spinach not only enhances the dish’s nutritional value but also balances the spices, giving it a unique flavor. The infusion of chole masala brings warmth and depth, while the soft and tender chickpeas absorb all the savory goodness of the gravy. This dish is an excellent way to introduce more greens into your diet while still indulging in the rich flavors of Indian cuisine.
The Perfect Blend of Spices and Greens
This recipe stands out because of its perfectly balanced spice mix and the smooth texture of the spinach puree. The combination of chole masala, Kashmiri red chili powder, turmeric, and coriander powder gives the dish a fragrant and mildly spiced flavor. Besan (gram flour) is a secret ingredient that enhances the consistency of the gravy, making it thick and luscious.
What truly makes this dish irresistible is the addition of whole spices while cooking the chickpeas. Bay leaf, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom add layers of warmth and depth, infusing the chana gravy with a subtle yet noticeable aroma. This slow infusion of flavors makes every bite of this dish a delight.
Why You Should Try Palak Chole
This dish is more than just a flavorful meal—it is a powerhouse of nutrition. Chickpeas are loaded with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making them a great addition to a healthy diet. When combined with spinach, which is rich in iron, calcium, and antioxidants, this gravy turns into a wholesome and nourishing dish.
For those looking to include more greens in their diet, this dish offers the perfect solution. The creamy chana gravy allows even those who are not fans of spinach to enjoy its benefits without compromising on taste. Plus, the use of yogurt in the spinach puree adds a slight tang, complementing the earthy flavors of the dish.
How Palak Chole is Different from Traditional Chole Masala
While Chana Masala is a well-loved dish in Indian households, the palak Version offers a refreshing variation. The traditional version is a deep red, tangy, and slightly spicy curry made with tomatoes and a blend of robust spices. In contrast, Palak Chole has a smoother texture, thanks to the spinach puree, and a milder taste, making it suitable for those who prefer less heat in their food.
Another key difference is the color and presentation. The beautiful green hue of the gravy makes it visually appealing and adds a refreshing touch to the plate. It’s a fantastic way to break the monotony of regular curries and introduce variety into your meals.
Serving Suggestions
This gravy pairs wonderfully with a variety of Indian breads and rice dishes. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- With Roti or Naan – The soft, warm texture of Indian bread complements the thick and flavorful chana gravy.
- With Jeera Rice – The earthy flavors of cumin-infused rice enhance the mild spiciness of the curry.
- With Bhatura – A classic pairing, the crispy, deep-fried bread absorbs the richness of the gravy beautifully.
- With Plain Steamed Rice – If you prefer a simple and comforting meal, plain rice works well with the rich flavors of this gravy.
For an extra touch, drizzle some fresh cream or ghee over the curry before serving. This enhances the flavor and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
A Healthy and Flavorful Dish for Every Occasion
Whether you are looking for a comforting meal for a cold evening or a special dish to serve guests, this recipe is a great choice. It is packed with flavors, nutrition, and the right amount of spice to satisfy your taste buds.
The combination of chole masala, whole spices, and fresh spinach creates a dish that is both aromatic and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare, rich in nutrients, and a fantastic way to enjoy a classic chickpea curry with a nutritious twist.
Try this delicious and wholesome dish today, and experience the best of both worlds—protein-packed chana masala and the health benefits of spinach in one delightful meal!
Wholesome & Delicious Palak Chole : The Ultimate Recipe
Ingredients
To Pressure Cook Chana
For Palak Puree
To chop
For Masala Mix
For Making Gravy
Instructions
Soaking and Cooking Chana
- Wash 1 cup of chana thoroughly and soak it overnight in enough water.
- Drain the soaked chana and transfer it to a pressure cooker.
- Add 2.5 cups of water, salt, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, cardamom, and cloves.
- Pressure cook on a medium flame for 6-7 whistles.
- Once the pressure releases naturally, separate the cooked chana from the stock and set both aside.
Preparing the Palak Puree
- Bring water to a boil in a pot and add 250g palak. Let it cook for 2 minutes.
- Immediately transfer the blanched palak to ice-cold water to retain its vibrant colour.
- Squeeze out excess water and transfer the palak to a grinding jar.
- Add ¼ cup cooked chana, curd, green chilli, and ¼ cup water.
- Blend into a smooth puree and set aside.
Chopping Ingredients
- In a chopper jar, add onion, garlic, ginger, and green chillies.
- Chop finely and set aside.
Preparing the Masala Mix
- In a small bowl, mix together chole masala, turmeric, Kashmiri chilli powder, coriander powder, and besan.
- Set aside for later use.
Cooking the Gravy
- Heat 3 tbsp oil in a kadai and add the chopped onion mixture.
- Sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
- Add chopped tomato and cook until it turns soft and mushy.
- Stir in the prepared masala mix and sauté for a few seconds.
- Pour in the palak puree and ½ cup water, then let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the reserved chana stock and simmer for 2 more minutes.
- Stir in the cooked chana and allow everything to cook together for 5 more minutes until the gravy thickens.
Final Touch and Serving
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or bhatura. Enjoy!
