When the rains arrive, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a plate of crispy, warm puris paired with a spicy chutney or a hot curry. But if you want to elevate your rainy day snack to a whole new level, try the vibrant and nutritious Palak Puri. This deep-fried, green-colored puri is made with fresh spinach (palak), and it’s a treat that not only satisfies your taste buds but also fills you with energy and warmth during a cool, rainy day.
Let’s dive into the Palak Puri Recipe and explore how you can bring this delicious dish to life in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 1 ½ cups Whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1 cup Fresh spinach (palak), washed and chopped
- 1-2 Green chilies, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp Carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1 tsp Cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1 tbsp Ginger, grated or finely chopped
- 1 tsp Asafoetida (hing)
- Salt, to taste
- Water, as required to knead the dough
- 1 tbsp Ghee or oil (for extra softness)
For frying:
- Oil for deep frying
Preparation:
- Prepare the Spinach Puree:
- Begin by blanching the fresh spinach leaves in boiling water for about 2 minutes. Once done, transfer the spinach into ice-cold water to retain its vibrant green color.
- Drain the spinach leaves and grind them into a smooth puree using a blender. Set this aside.
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, carom seeds, cumin seeds, asafoetida, and salt. If you’re using green chilies and ginger, add them as well for an extra zing.
- Add the spinach puree to the flour mixture and mix it thoroughly. Slowly add water, little by little, and knead the dough to a soft and smooth consistency. The dough should not be too stiff or too soft.
- Once your dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps the dough to absorb all the flavors and makes it easier to roll out the puris.
- Shape the Palak Puris:
- After the dough has rested, divide it into small, even-sized balls.
- Roll each ball into a small, round disc, just like regular puris, using a rolling pin. Keep the thickness uniform, but don’t roll it out too thin, as the puris should puff up when fried.
- Fry the Palak Puris:
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully slide the rolled puris into the oil. Press gently on the puris with a slotted spoon to help them puff up.
- Fry until the puris are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as it can lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy puris.
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the fried puris from the oil and drain them on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
- Serve them hot with a tangy tamarind chutney or a spicy potato curry for a truly satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love Palak Puri:
- Packed with Nutrition:
- Spinach, the main ingredient, is a powerhouse of nutrients like iron, fiber, and vitamins, making this puri not only tasty but healthy too.
- Aesthetic Appeal:
- The vibrant green color of the puris makes them stand out on the plate, creating a visually appealing dish that is perfect for a rainy day meal or for entertaining guests.
- Crisp and Fluffy:
- Palak puris have the perfect balance of crispiness and puffiness, thanks to the spinach and spices in the dough. The result is a delicious snack that melts in your mouth.
- Perfect for Any Occasion:
- Whether it’s a rainy afternoon, a weekend brunch, or a festive celebration, palak puri is a delightful option that can be enjoyed at any time.
Tips for the Perfect Palak Puri:
- Do not add too much water while kneading the dough. Since spinach releases water during grinding, it’s important to add water gradually to maintain the right consistency.
- Rest the dough for 10-15 minutes before rolling. This helps in making the puris soft and easy to fry.
- Fry the puris on medium heat. If the oil is too hot, they will brown too quickly and remain uncooked from the inside.
- You can add a pinch of garam masala or ajwain (carom seeds) to the dough for extra flavor.
Final Thoughts:
Palak Puri is a delightful dish that blends the goodness of greens with the indulgence of deep-fried puris. Whether you’re enjoying them on a rainy day, as a snack, or as part of a larger meal, they will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. So, next time the rain begins to fall, bring out the flour and spinach and treat yourself to this unforgettable, crispy delight!
