Palak Chana Daal (Lentils with Spinach)

Daal Lentils are a year-round staple not just at our family meals, but in most Indian homes. Add a handful of healthy green spinach to the lentils, and you’ve got a wholesome Palak Chana Daal, ideal as an entree with fragrant Basmati rice. Or serve it as a side to your Indian grills and vegetables along with Indian flatbread.

The Daal or lentil (for those not in the know, the word ‘Daal’ applies to the raw lentil grain and cooked preparation!) used for this dish is gram lentils (Chana Daal) cooked to softness with fresh spinach, along with Indian aromatics and spices.

There are many ways to cook lentils. Soak them well and use a stovetop stockpot or pressure cooker. You can also use the convenience of an Insta-pot or a slow-cooker.