Stuffed Palak Cheese Paratha Recipe

Stuffed Palak Cheese Paratha is a delightful and nutritious variation of the classic Indian flatbread. The combination of spinach (palak) and cheese wrapped in a soft, golden-brown paratha is not only mouthwatering but also packs a punch in terms of health benefits. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this paratha offers a delicious fusion of flavors and textures. The stuffed filling makes it a complete meal that is rich in vitamins, iron, and protein. Whether you’re a fan of parathas or looking for a way to sneak in some greens into your diet, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why Stuffed Palak Cheese Paratha?

Parathas are a staple in many Indian households, and while they are often enjoyed in their plain form or with fillings like potatoes (aloo) or cauliflower (gobhi), the stuffed palak cheese paratha is an exceptional choice for a twist on tradition. The spinach provides essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and fiber, while the cheese adds a creamy, rich flavor that contrasts beautifully with the earthy greens. This paratha is not just tasty; it’s also packed with proteins, making it a wholesome option for everyone, from kids to adults.

Preparation Time

Blanching and Dough Prep: 20 minutes
Rolling and Cooking Parathas: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving: 1 Paratha)

Calories: ~210 kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 3g
Iron: 12% of RDI
Calcium: 10% of RDI

Ingredients

For Dough:

200 grams spinach (palak)
5-6 green chilies
1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
3 cups whole wheat flour (atta)
1/2 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (til)
1 teaspoon salt

For Filling:

1 cup processed cheese (grated)
2 green chilies (finely chopped, optional)
1 teaspoon fresh coriander (finely chopped)

For Cooking:

Ghee or butter (as required)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blanch Spinach (Palak)

Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.
Once the water begins to boil, add the spinach (palak) leaves and blanch them for about 5 minutes.
Immediately transfer the blanched spinach into ice-cold water to help it retain its vibrant green color and to stop the cooking process.
Once cooled, squeeze out any excess water from the spinach. Set the spinach aside to prepare it for the paste.

2. Prepare Spinach Paste

In a blender, add the blanched spinach, 5-6 green chilies, 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste, and 1 teaspoon cumin seeds.
Blend everything into a smooth paste. The smoothness of the paste will ensure that it mixes well with the dough, giving the paratha a nice, cohesive texture.

3. Make Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, ajwain (carom seeds), sesame seeds, and salt.
Gradually add the spinach paste to the flour mixture, kneading it into a soft dough. If the dough feels too stiff, add a little water to make it pliable.
Add 1 teaspoon of oil to the dough and knead for 2 more minutes. This step helps make the dough softer and easier to roll.
Once the dough is ready, cover it and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the dough become more elastic and easier to roll.

4. Prepare Cheese Filling

Grate the processed cheese and transfer it to a bowl.
Add finely chopped green chilies (optional) and fresh coriander to the grated cheese. Mix well to combine the ingredients into a cohesive filling.

5. Make Parathas

Divide the dough into equal-sized balls (around 8-10 depending on the desired size of the parathas).
Take one dough ball and roll it out into a small disc (about 3-4 inches in diameter).
Place about 2 tablespoons of the cheese filling in the center of the rolled-out dough.
Carefully fold the edges of the dough over the filling, sealing it well to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Gently roll out the stuffed dough ball into a flat, round paratha. Make sure not to press too hard so that the filling doesn’t leak out.

6. Cook Parathas

Heat a tawa (griddle) or a non-stick pan over medium heat.
Place the rolled-out paratha on the hot tawa. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes on one side, until bubbles start to form on the surface.

Flip the paratha over and apply a little ghee or butter on top. Cook the other side for 1-2 minutes until it is golden and crispy.
Flip it once more and apply ghee or butter on the other side as well. Continue cooking until both sides are evenly golden brown and crispy.
Repeat this process with the remaining dough balls and filling.

7. Serve

Serve the stuffed palak cheese parathas hot, with a side of curd, pickle, or green chutney. You can also enjoy them with a glass of buttermilk for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Palak Cheese Paratha

Spinach Paste Consistency: Ensure that the spinach paste is smooth but not too runny. If it’s too watery, it will make the dough sticky and difficult to handle.
Always use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach gives the best color and flavor to the paratha. Avoid using frozen spinach as it may alter the taste and texture.
Adjust Spice Level: The green chilies can be adjusted based on your spice preference. If you prefer a milder paratha, reduce the number of chilies in the dough and filling.
Use of Ghee or Butter: Ghee or butter enhances the flavor and gives the paratha a rich, golden finish. However, for a healthier alternative, you can use olive oil or a non-stick spray.
Resting the Dough: Don’t skip the resting time for the dough. It allows the gluten to relax, making it easier to roll out the parathas.

Health Benefits of Stuffed Palak Cheese Paratha

1. Rich in Iron and Calcium: Spinach is a great source of iron, which is essential for the production of hemoglobin and overall energy levels. The addition of cheese provides calcium, which is beneficial for bone health.

2. High in Protein: The cheese and whole wheat flour offer a good amount of protein, making this paratha a filling and satisfying meal. It’s ideal for vegetarians looking to increase their protein intake.

3. Fiber-Rich: The spinach in the paratha provides dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy digestive system.

4. Versatile Meal: You can enjoy these parathas as part of a wholesome breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Pair them with a vegetable curry or yogurt for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Stuffed Palak Cheese Paratha is not only a delicious and satisfying dish but also an incredibly nutritious one. With its rich blend of spinach, cheese, and spices, it offers a healthy way to enjoy an Indian favorite. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast, lunch, or dinner option, this paratha will surely be a hit. Follow the simple steps and enjoy a warm, soft paratha stuffed with cheesy goodness!

Final Thoughts

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