Palakachi Patal Bhaji
A creamy, comforting Maharashtrian curry made with spinach and chana dal, simmered with peanuts and a hint of jaggery. This nutritious, home-style dish pairs perfectly with bhakri or rice.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Pressure Cook Dal and Peanuts
- b.Drain the soaked chana dal. In a pressure cooker, combine the drained dal, raw peanuts, 1/4 tsp of the turmeric powder, and 1.5 cups of water.
- c.Secure the lid and cook on medium heat for 4-5 whistles, or for about 15 minutes, until the dal is soft but not mushy.
- d.Allow the pressure to release naturally. Once open, gently mash about a quarter of the dal with the back of a spoon to help thicken the gravy later. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare Besan Slurry
- b.In a small bowl, add the 2 tbsp of besan. Gradually whisk in 1/4 cup of water until you have a smooth, lump-free slurry. Set this aside for later.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Spinach
- b.Heat oil in a kadai or deep pan over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and let them splutter completely.
- c.Add the cumin seeds and hing. Sauté for 10-15 seconds until fragrant.
- d.Add the minced garlic, slit green chillies, and chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
- e.Add the chopped spinach and a pinch of salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts completely.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Simmer the Bhaji
- b.Add the Goda masala and the remaining 1/4 tsp of turmeric powder. Sauté for 1 minute until the raw smell of the spices disappears.
- c.Slowly pour in the besan slurry while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- d.Add the cooked chana dal and peanut mixture, grated jaggery, tamarind paste, and salt. Mix everything well to combine.
- e.Pour in the remaining 1 cup of water (or more, if you prefer a thinner consistency). Stir well and bring the curry to a gentle boil.
- f.Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.
- g.Check for seasoning and adjust salt, jaggery, or tamarind if needed. Serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, use Goda Masala. If unavailable, you can substitute with 1 tsp garam masala and a pinch of black pepper.
- 2The name 'Patal Bhaji' means a thin curry, so the consistency should be like a thick, flowing soup. Adjust water to your preference.
- 3Lightly mashing some of the cooked chana dal is a traditional way to naturally thicken the curry without making it too heavy.
- 4Soaking the chana dal is crucial as it reduces cooking time and makes it easier to digest.
- 5For a richer flavor, you can use ghee instead of vegetable oil for the tempering.
- 6Serve hot with jowar bhakri, bajra bhakri, chapati, or steamed rice for a complete Maharashtrian meal.
Adapt it for your goals.
Dal Variation
You can make this bhaji with toor dal (split pigeon peas) or a mix of chana and toor dal for a different texture.
No Onion/GarlicNo Onion/Garlic
For a sattvic or Jain version, skip the onion and garlic. The dish will still be flavorful due to the spices.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
In some regional variations, small pieces of drumsticks (shengdana) are cooked along with the dal for added flavor and nutrition.
Creamier TextureCreamier Texture
For a creamier finish, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of fresh cream or a swirl of coconut milk at the end of cooking.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Iron and Vitamins
Spinach is an excellent source of iron, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and folate, which are essential for blood production, bone health, and overall immunity.
Excellent Plant-Based Protein
Chana dal is packed with plant-based protein and dietary fiber, which helps in muscle repair, keeps you full for longer, and aids in weight management.
Promotes Digestive Health
The high fiber content from both dal and spinach, along with digestive spices like hing and cumin, helps regulate bowel movements and supports a healthy gut.
Heart-Healthy
This dish is low in saturated fat and contains healthy fats from peanuts. The fiber helps in managing cholesterol levels, making it beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a very healthy dish. It's rich in protein from chana dal, iron and vitamins from spinach, and healthy fats from peanuts. The use of minimal oil and wholesome ingredients makes it a nutritious choice for a daily meal.