Palak Paneer is a popular North Indian dish made with fresh spinach (Palak) and cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a flavorful tomato and onion gravy. Palak Paneer Recipe is frequently eaten with rice or naan bread. Here’s a Palak paneer recipe to help you recreate this delicious dish at home:
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh greens, washed and finely chopped
200 grams paneer, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, pureed
2 green chilies, sliced lengthwise (tune the amount of heat to your taste)
1 teaspoon ginger and garlic paste
2 spoon cumin seeds
3 spoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
Red chilliypowder, 1/2 tsp. (modify to taste)
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Salt to taste
Instructions:
Blanch the Spinach:
Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the chopped spinach leaves.
Let it cook for about 2 minutes until the leaves wilt.
Drain the spinach and immediately plunge it into a bowl of ice water to retain its vibrant green color.
Drain again and blend the blanched spinach into a smooth puree. Set aside.
Prepare the Paneer:
In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil on medium.
Add the paneer cubes and cook them in the pan until they are evenly golden brown.
Paneer should be taken out of the pan and left aside.
Prepare the Gravy for Palak Paneer:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of ghee or oil.
Stir in the cumin seeds and watch them puff up.
Chopped onions should be added and sautéed until translucent.
Add the ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Sauté for another minute.
Add the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook the mixture for about 5-6 minutes until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
Combine the Gravy and Spinach:
Add the pureed spinach to the pan and combine it thoroughly with the masala.
Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to dissolve.
If the consistency is too thick, you can add some water to adjust it.
Add Paneer and Finish:
Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to dissolve.
Sprinkle garam masala over the mixture and stir well.
If desired, you can add heavy cream at this stage for a richer texture.
Serve:
Palak Paneer is now ready to be served. Transfer it to a serving dish.
Garnish with a drizzle of cream and serve hot with naan bread or steamed rice.
Enjoy the rich and flavorful Palak Paneer, a classic vegetarian dish that’s both nutritious and delicious!