Palak rice, also known as spinach rice, is a nutritious and flavorful dish made by combining cooked rice with a vibrant spinach puree. It's a great way to incorporate leafy greens into your diet. Here's a simple recipe to make palak rice:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups spinach leaves, washed and finely chopped

• 1 cup basmati rice

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped

• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds

• 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste

• 1 teaspoon garam masala

• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust according to your taste)

• Salt to taste

• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee

• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the basmati rice in water until the water runs clear. Soak the rice in water for about 30 minutes, then drain and set aside.

2. In a pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the chopped spinach leaves for about 2-3 minutes. Drain the spinach and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to retain its green color. Once cooled, drain the spinach again and blend it to a smooth puree using a blender or food processor. Set aside.

3. Heat oil or ghee in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and allow them to splutter.

4. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns golden brown.

5. Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.

6. Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Cook the tomatoes until they turn soft and mushy, stirring occasionally.

7. Add the spinach puree to the pan and mix well with the tomato mixture. Let it cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

8. Add the soaked and drained rice to the pan and gently mix it with the spinach-tomato mixture, ensuring that each grain is coated with the flavors.

9. Pour 2 cups of water into the pan and bring it to a boil. Once it boils, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and all the water is absorbed.

10. Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

11. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and serve hot.

Palak rice can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with raita (yogurt dip), pickle, or any curry of your choice. It's a nutritious and flavorful option for a complete meal.