Palak Rassa

This is a Maharashtrian side dish with spinach and chana dal (split chickpeas). It is served with rice or chapatis.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons split chickpeas (chana dal)
• 0.25 cup water
• 6 cups fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon green chile paste
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 2 tablespoons boiled peanuts
• salt to taste

Steps

1. Combine chana dal and water in a pressure cooker. Close cooker securely and place pressure regulator over vent according to manufacturer's instructions. Heat until steam escapes in a steady flow and makes a whistling sound, about 5 minutes. Adjust temperature until regulator is gently rocking. Cook for 15 minutes. Let pressure release naturally according to manufacturer's instructions, 5 to 10 minutes. Unlock lid and remove.
2. Fill a large bowl with ice and cold water. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add spinach to boiling water and cook until wilted, a few seconds. Drain spinach in a colander and immediately immerse in ice water for several minutes to stop the cooking process. Drain well. Add to a food processor and puree.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic, cumin seeds, green chile paste, and turmeric. Stir to combine and toast until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add chana dal, spinach puree, and boiled peanuts. Stir to combine and season with salt. Simmer until thoroughly reheated, about 2 minutes.