Andhra's Palak Pappu Is Iron Rich And Full Of Flavour

By Shireen Jamooji

July 10, 2023

Palak Pappu is a traditional Andhra Pradesh dish that combines the goodness of spinach (palak) and lentils (pappu).  This flavorful and nutritious recipe is perfect for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients

1 cup spinach leaves, washed and chopped ½ cup toor dal (split pigeon peas), washed 2 green chillies, slit 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 tomato, chopped 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste ½ teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon red chilli powder

Tempering

2 tablespoons oil 1 teaspoon mustard seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds A pinch of asafoetida Few curry leaves

Step 1

Pressure cook toor dal with 2 cups of water until soft and mushy. Set aside.

Step 2

Heat oil in a pan and add mustard seeds, cumin seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves. Let them splutter.

Step 3

Add chopped onions, green chillies, and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté until onions turn translucent.

Step 4

Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn mushy. Then add turmeric powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Mix well.

Step 5

Add the chopped spinach leaves and cook until they wilt down. Mash the cooked dal and add it to the spinach mixture. 

Step 6

Add water if needed to adjust the consistency. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.Adjust the seasoning if required and serve hot.