Palak Paratha
Palak Paratha, a vibrant and nutritious Indian flatbread, combines the goodness of spinach with the wholesomeness of whole wheat flour. This easy-to-make dish is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup spinach leaves (palak), washed and finely chopped or pureed
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- Water as needed
- Ghee or oil for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, cumin seeds, carom seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt.
- Add the finely chopped or pureed spinach, ginger-garlic paste, and green chili.
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Gradually add water and knead to form a soft and pliable dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes.
- Roll Out the Parathas:
- Divide the dough into small, equal-sized balls.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out each ball into a flat, circular paratha, about 6-8 inches in diameter. Make sure the thickness is even.
- Cook the Parathas:
- Heat a tawa or flat griddle over medium heat.
- Place a rolled-out paratha on the hot tawa. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until small bubbles appear on the surface.
- Flip the paratha and drizzle a little ghee or oil around the edges. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown spots appear on both sides.
- Press gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking. Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls.
- Serve:
- Serve the hot with a side of yogurt, pickle, or any curry of your choice. They also pair well with raita or a simple salad.
Nutritional Benefits
- Spinach (Palak): Rich in iron, calcium, vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants. Spinach supports healthy vision, strengthens bones, and boosts the immune system.
- Whole Wheat Flour: A good source of dietary fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals. It aids digestion, supports heart health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
- Spices: The spices used in Palak Paratha, such as turmeric, cumin, and carom seeds, have anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
Variations
- Cheese : Add grated cheese to the dough for a cheesy twist.
- Stuffed : Stuff the parathas with a filling of your choice, such as mashed potatoes, paneer, or mixed vegetables.
- Multigrain : Use a combination of flours, such as whole wheat, chickpea, and millet, for added nutrition and texture.
Palak Paratha is a delightful and nutritious dish that brings together the flavors of fresh spinach and aromatic spices. It’s a versatile flatbread that can be enjoyed at any time of the day, providing a wholesome and satisfying meal.
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