On a recent visit to Kalustyan’s (aka heaven), I picked up a spice blend made specifically for palaak dishes. You usually hear of palaak paneer, but I knew my husband wouldn’t go for a meat-free meal and I was after the flavor rather than a particular protein.
I started by simmering onions in oil in a large pot. Once they were translucent, I added a bag of fresh spinach and let it wilt before adding some milk, salt, and a heavy dose of the palaak spice blend. Once the flavors settled, I used an immersion blender to turn it into a smooth, green sauce. Set the sauce aside and cook up your chicken (boneless skinless breasts cut into 1-inch pieces that have been coated with the same spice blend + salt) in a pan with oil. You may also consider marinating the chicken bites in Greek yogurt with the spice blend and salt and baking in the oven. I didn’t have the time for that but may try it next time.
Serve over rice and feel like Popeye. (Also, I highly recommend some buttery naan on the side because we love a coordinated carb.)
Peaches to Apples 