1. Nutritional Value
Stuffed Palak Paratha is a nutritious and delicious dish perfect for kids. Spinach (palak) is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, which are essential for growing children. The whole wheat flour used in the paratha provides dietary fiber and essential nutrients like magnesium and zinc. Adding paneer (cottage cheese) or mixed vegetables as stuffing boosts protein content, making it a well-balanced meal that supports growth and development.
2. Ingredients
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For the Dough:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup spinach (palak), finely chopped or pureed
- 1 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Water, as needed
- 1 tablespoon oil or ghee (optional)
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For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup paneer (cottage cheese), crumbled (or boiled potatoes for variation)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 tablespoon fresh coriander leaves, finely chopped
- Salt, to taste
- A pinch of turmeric powder
- A pinch of red chili powder (optional, based on the child’s taste preference)
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For Cooking:
- Ghee or oil for cooking
3. Method of Preparation
1. Preparing the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, chopped or pureed spinach, carom seeds, cumin seeds, and salt.
- Gradually add water and knead the mixture into a soft, smooth dough.
- Optionally, add a tablespoon of oil or ghee to make the dough more pliable.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
2. Preparing the Stuffing:
- In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled paneer (or boiled potatoes) with finely chopped onions, ginger-garlic paste, cumin powder, coriander powder, garam masala, chopped coriander leaves, salt, turmeric powder, and red chili powder (if using).
- Mix the ingredients well to ensure even seasoning.
3. Assembling the Parathas:
- Divide the dough into small, equal-sized balls.
- Roll out each ball into a small circle using a rolling pin.
- Place a spoonful of the stuffing mixture in the center of the rolled dough.
- Gather the edges of the dough and bring them together to seal the stuffing inside.
- Gently flatten the stuffed dough ball and roll it out again into a circle, ensuring the stuffing doesn’t spill out.
4. Cooking the Parathas:
- Heat a tawa (griddle) over medium heat.
- Place the rolled paratha on the tawa and cook until small bubbles appear on the surface.
- Flip the paratha and apply a little ghee or oil on both sides.
- Cook until both sides are golden brown and the paratha is fully cooked.
- Repeat the process for the remaining dough and stuffing.
5. Serving:
- Serve the stuffed palak parathas hot with yogurt, pickle, or a side of fresh salad.
- These parathas make a nutritious breakfast or lunch option for kids, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and protein.
