Dairy-Free Dal Palak

Dive into a bowl of comforting, nutrient-packed goodness with this *Dairy-Free Dal Palak*. This vibrant Indian-inspired dish combines creamy yellow moong dal and tender spinach leaves, simmered with aromatic spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala for a bold, earthy flavor. Coconut oil adds a luscious plant-based touch, while a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens every bite. Perfect for those seeking a hearty vegetarian or vegan dinner option, this dal palak is an excellent source of plant-based protein and iron, making it as nourishing as it is flavorful. Ready in just 45 minutes, it pairs beautifully with steamed rice or warm Indian flatbreads for a wholesome, satisfying meal.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:45 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Yellow moong dal (split yellow lentils)
• 3 cups Fresh spinach leaves
• 3 cups Water
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium Tomato, finely chopped
• 3 Garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Ginger, grated
• 1 Green chili, slit
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon Cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon Coriander powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Garam masala
• 2 tablespoons Coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons Coriander leaves, chopped

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the yellow moong dal under cold running water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Heat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chili. Sauté for another minute.

Step 5

Stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes become soft and mushy.

Step 6

Add the rinsed dal and 3 cups of water to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil.

Step 7

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes or until the dal is cooked and has a soft texture.

Step 8

While the dal is cooking, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spinach leaves and sauté until they wilt down. Set aside.

Step 9

Once the dal is cooked, add salt, and garam masala to it. Mix well.

Step 10

Add the sautéed spinach to the dal mixture and stir to combine everything thoroughly.

Step 11

Cook for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Step 12

Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon juice.

Step 13

Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Step 14

Serve hot with rice or Indian flatbread.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1328.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1087.8

Total Fat 32.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 23.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 2489.0mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 149.7g	0%
Dietary Fiber 24.9g	0%
Total Sugars 16.8g
Protein 55.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 326.3mg	0%
Iron 15.7mg	0%
Potassium 3601.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 26.1%

Protein: 20.0%

Carbs: 53.8%