Palakoora Vepadu (Andhra-Style Sautéed Spinach)

Name: Palakoora Vepadu (Andhra-Style Sautéed Spinach)
Total time: PT0D0H0M
Yield: serves 2-4
Ingredients: 1 ⁄ 4 cup canola oil; 1 tsp. cumin seeds; 1 ⁄ 4 tsp. fenugreek seeds; 12 fresh or frozen curry leaves; 9 cloves garlic, 3 halved lengthwise, 6 minced; 1 yellow onion, minced; 1 tsp. ground coriander; 1 tsp. red chile powder, such as cayenne; 1 ⁄ 2 tsp. ground turmeric; 1 (2") piece ginger, peeled and grated; Kosher salt, to taste; 3 lb. baby spinach

Serves
serves 2-4

INGALLS PHOTOGRAPHY

The south Indian state of Andhra Pradesh is known for its messes, or mess halls, which serve cheap, freshly made vegetarian food. Rice is the base of the meal; dishes such as palakoora vepadu, fresh spinach sautéed with an array of spices, add variety of flavor, texture, and nutrients. This recipe first appeared in our August/September 2014 special India issue.

Ingredients

¹⁄₄ cup canola oil
1 tsp. cumin seeds
¹⁄₄ tsp. fenugreek seeds
12 fresh or frozen curry leaves
9 cloves garlic, 3 halved lengthwise, 6 minced
1 yellow onion, minced
1 tsp. ground coriander
1 tsp. red chile powder, such as cayenne
¹⁄₂ tsp. ground turmeric
1 (2") piece ginger, peeled and grated
Kosher salt, to taste
3 lb. baby spinach

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Instructions

Step 1

Heat oil in a 12" nonstick skillet over medium-high. Cook cumin seeds until they pop, 1–2 minutes. Add fenugreek seeds, curry leaves, and halved garlic; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add onion; cook until golden, 10–12 minutes. Add minced garlic, the coriander, chile powder, turmeric, ginger, and salt; cook until garlic is golden, 2–3 minutes. Stir in spinach; cook until wilted and slightly dry, 6–8 minutes.