Palak Paneer Recipe
Ingredients Summary:
- Paneer: 250g, cubed
- Fresh spinach (palak): 300g (blanched and pureed)
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Tomato: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Ginger: 1 tablespoon, minced
- Green chilies: 2, chopped
- Cumin seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Garam masala: 1/2 teaspoon
- Cream: 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Oil or ghee: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: To taste
Instructions Overview:
- Blanch the Spinach: Blanch spinach in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, drain, and puree it in a blender. Set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a pan, heat oil or ghee, and add cumin seeds. Once they crackle, add garlic, ginger, and green chilies, and sauté for a minute. Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric, and garam masala. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil separates.
- Mix in Spinach and Paneer: Add the pureed spinach and cook for 4-5 minutes. Gently stir in the paneer cubes and let everything simmer for a few more minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Add cream for richness (optional), adjust seasoning, and serve hot with naan or rice.
For full details and variations, visit Veg Recipes of India – Palak Paneer.
Palak Paneer is a classic vegetarian Indian dish that combines soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) with a rich, creamy spinach sauce infused with aromatic spices like garam masala, turmeric, and cumin. This dish is both nutritious and flavorful, making it a popular choice for vegetarians and anyone looking for a hearty, healthy meal. This palak paneer recipe involves blanching fresh spinach and blending it into a smooth puree, which is then cooked with sautéed onions, tomatoes, garlic, and ginger to create a silky sauce. The paneer cubes are lightly fried before being added to the spinach mixture, ensuring they retain their texture while absorbing the flavors of the curry. Serve it with naan, roti, or basmati rice for a complete and satisfying meal.