a La Dal Palak-Spinach with Lentils

There is a story in ancient Europe which says that this leafy vegetable was a favorite of Catherine de Medici, a historical figure of 16th century. Whenever she left her home she would take her favorite chefs with her to make spinach dish the way she was used to eating. From then onwards, whenever a dish is served on a bed of spinach in restaurants it is called " a La Florentine" in her honor.My sister Chaya had sent me the picture with the recipe long back. Thanks Chaya!


1 cup toor dal
1 bunch spinach
1 onion chopped finely
1 big tomato
1 tsp grated ginger
2-3 cloves garlic chopped finely
1 tsp cummin
3 green chilies
1/2 tsp garam masala powder
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
2-3 sprigs coriander leaves
1 tsp olive oil
salt to taste

Pressure cook spinach with toor dal, green chilies & salt. Keep aside. Heat oil in a pan; add cummin seeds. When they start to brown add the onions and saute till transparent.Add tomatoes, ginger and garlic. Cook till tomatoes are done.Add the garma masala & turmeric. Fry for 2 mins and add the spinach mixture from the pressure cooker.Add salt. Boil on a low heat for 3 mins. Garnish with coriander leaves

Enjoy!