Palong Spinach Curry, also known as Palong Shak Curry, is a beloved dish in Bangladeshi households. Simple yet deeply flavorful, this recipe brings out the natural goodness of fresh spinach blended with traditional spices. It is a perfect example of how Bangladeshi cuisine transforms everyday vegetables into hearty, comforting meals that nourish both body and soul.
This spinach curry is not only delicious but also versatile. It can be enjoyed with plain rice, roti, or paratha, making it suitable for both lunch and dinner. The earthy taste of spinach combined with aromatic spices creates a wholesome dish that satisfies the taste buds while providing essential nutrients.
Health Benefits of Palong Spinach Curry
Palong spinach is a powerhouse of nutrition, making this dish a healthy addition to your diet:
- Rich in Iron – Supports healthy blood circulation and prevents anemia.
- High in Fiber – Aids digestion and promotes gut health.
- Loaded with Vitamins – Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin A, C, and K, boosting immunity and bone health.
- Low in Calories – Perfect for weight management while keeping meals satisfying.
- Antioxidants – Spinach is rich in antioxidants that protect the body from harmful free radicals.
Bangladeshi Style Palong Spinach Curry – Healthy, Delicious, and Authentic Recipe
Discover the authentic taste of Bangladeshi Palong Spinach Curry! Learn expert cooking tips, health benefits, and serving notes for this flavorful and nutritious spinach recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
½ cup chopped onion
2 tablespoons chopped garlic
3–4 green chilies
100 g medium-sized shrimp (cleaned and deveined)
Salt, to taste
Ginger paste 1 teaspoon
A small amount of water (as needed)
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
Additional salt, if needed
2 medium-sized potatoes, sliced
25 g cauliflower florets
1 tomato, sliced
200 g palong spinach (fresh spinach)
Directions
- Take 200 g of palong spinach (Palak), wash it thoroughly, and cut it into medium-sized pieces.
Clean and wash 100 g of medium-sized shrimp.
Chop ½ cup onion and 2 tablespoons garlic. Slice 1 tomato. Peel, wash, and slice 2 medium-sized potatoes. Cut 25 g cauliflower into medium-sized florets.
Heat 3 teaspoons of olive oil (or any cooking oil of your choice) in a pan.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, green chilies, and shrimp. Fry until the shrimp turns slightly pink and the onions are soft.
Add 1 teaspoon ginger paste, mix well, and fry for a minute until fragrant.
Add all the spices:
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
Salt, to taste
Mix everything well.
Add a small amount of water to help mix the spices evenly.
Add the sliced potatoes and cauliflower florets. Mix well. Cover with a lid and cook on low flame for 2 minutes.
After 2 minutes, add the tomato slices and mix gently. Cook until the potatoes and cauliflower are half-cooked. Keep the flame low and cook for about 10 minutes.
Add the prepared spinach and cover the pan. Cook on low flame for 10 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is tender.
Once cooked, the Palong Spinach Curry with Shrimp is ready to serve.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Notes on Palong Spinach Curry
Palong curry is a staple in Bangladeshi cooking, often made with fresh spinach during the winter season when it’s widely available.
It can be cooked on its own or combined with other vegetables, lentils, or even fish for added variety.
This dish is light, flavorful, and comforting—perfect for those looking for a nutritious yet simple meal.
Freshly chopped coriander leaves or a squeeze of lemon juice can enhance its flavor before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Choose Fresh Spinach – Always use fresh palong shak (spinach) for the best taste and nutritional value. Avoid wilted leaves.
- Don’t Overcook – Spinach cooks very quickly; overcooking can make it lose its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Balancing Spices – A small amount of turmeric, chili, and cumin can bring out the earthy taste of spinach beautifully without overpowering it.
- Add Protein – You can pair spinach with lentils or fish to make the dish more filling and balanced.
- Consistency – Adjust the water depending on whether you prefer a dry-style curry or a more gravy-like version.
Bangladeshi Style Palong Spinach Curry is a simple yet flavorful dish that perfectly reflects the richness of traditional Bangladeshi home cooking. With its earthy taste, quick preparation, and impressive nutritional profile, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone looking to enjoy wholesome and authentic Bangladeshi cuisine.
Whether served with hot steamed rice or paired with roti, this spinach curry will bring warmth, flavor, and nourishment to your table.



























