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Spinach, or palak, is a popular leafy green in Indian cuisine, particularly in the winter when it is at its freshest and most flavourful. This nutrient-dense vegetable flourishes in the cooler months, so winter is the ideal time to integrate it into a range of meals. Spinach is a popular vegetable in both traditional and modern Indian cooking due to its delicate leaves, mild earthy flavour, and vivid green colour.
Cooking spinach in winter not only takes advantage of its seasonal bounty, but also meets the demand for warm, nourishing meals during the colder months. It is quite adaptable, appearing in everything from creamy curries and dals to crunchy snacks such as pakoras and paranthas.
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Spinach is a nutrient-dense superfood. It is high in iron, which promotes healthy blood synthesis, and vitamin C, which increases immunity—an important advantage in the winter. Spinach also contains antioxidants such as lutein and beta-carotene, which improve eye health and reduce inflammation. Its high fibre content aids digestion, while calcium and vitamin K build strong bones. Spinach, which is low in calories but high in nutrients, is a winter must-have for flavour and wellness.
Also Read: Easy Steps To Grow Spinach In Containers
Saag Aloo
A classic Punjabi dish, Saag Aloo is a hearty and comforting curry that is perfect for winter. The richness of the spinach is complemented by the soft, starchy potatoes. The spinach is cooked with spices such as cumin, turmeric, garam masala, and ginger, creating a fragrant and flavorful base. The dish can be served with rotis or rice for a satisfying meal. The earthy flavor of the spinach pairs beautifully with the potatoes, and the dish can be made as spicy or mild as desired, making it a family favorite during the colder months.
Palak Paneer
Another popular North Indian dish, Palak Paneer is a creamy spinach curry made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese). The spinach is blanched and pureed and then simmered with onions, garlic, ginger, and spices such as cumin and coriander. The cubes of paneer are added to the spinach gravy, absorbing the flavours and creating a rich, indulgent dish. This comforting curry is often served with naan or rice and is a great way to incorporate both dairy and greens into your diet during the winter. The slight bitterness of the spinach and the softness of the paneer create a perfect balance of flavors.
Palak Dal
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Palak Dal combines the creaminess of cooked lentils with the goodness of spinach. This simple yet flavourful dish involves tempering mustard seeds, curry leaves, and chillies, which enhance the mild flavour of spinach. Served with steamed rice and a drizzle of ghee, it’s a comforting option for colder days.
Palak Paratha
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This wholesome flatbread is made by kneading fresh spinach puree into whole wheat flour dough, flavoured with spices like carom seeds and chili powder. Palak parathas are not only nutritious but also a great way to sneak greens into your diet. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a quick winter snack with yoghurt or pickles.
Palak Chaat
A unique street-food-style dish, Palak Chaat transforms spinach into a crispy delight. Fresh spinach leaves are dipped in spiced gram flour batter, deep-fried until crisp, and topped with tangy chutneys, yogurt, and chaat masala. It’s a delightful fusion of textures and flavours, ideal for enjoying winter’s chill.
Palak Khichdi
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A winter-special comfort food, Palak Khichdi blends rice, lentils, and spinach into a one-pot dish. Spinach is sautéed with spices like cinnamon and cloves before being cooked with rice and lentils, creating a lightly spiced, creamy dish. Garnished with ghee-fried garlic or onions, it’s perfect for a cosy evening meal.
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Palak Pakoras
Crispy and golden, Palak Pakoras are a beloved winter snack across India. Fresh spinach leaves are coated in a spiced chickpea flour batter and deep-fried to perfection. These fritters enjoyed with hot tea and chutney, are an irresistible treat to relish on cold evenings.
