Palak Paneer is a popular North Indian dish that combines the goodness of spinach (palak) with soft and creamy paneer (Indian cottage cheese). This vibrant and nutritious dish is loved for its mild yet flavourful taste, and it’s a great way to incorporate healthy greens into your diet. The dish features a smooth spinach puree simmered with aromatic spices, onions, and tomatoes, along with paneer cubes that soak up the flavours. Palak Paneer is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed with roti (Indian bread), naan, rice, or even as a side dish. Let’s explore the details of this wholesome and delicious recipe!
Ingredients:
- 250 grams paneer, cut into cubes
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and blanched
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chilli powder (adjust according to spice preference)
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cream for garnishing (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat oil or ghee in a pan or skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown.
- Add the slit green chilies and ginger-garlic paste. Sauté for a minute until the raw smell of ginger-garlic disappears.
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they become soft and mushy, stirring occasionally.
- Once the tomatoes are cooked, add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chilli powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a minute to allow the spices to release their flavours.
- Add the blanched spinach leaves to the pan. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the spinach wilts down and blends well with the spices.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender or food processor. Blend the mixture into a smooth puree. You can add a little water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Return the spinach puree to the pan and place it over medium heat. Add the garam masala and mix well. Simmer for a few minutes to let the flavours meld together.
- Add the paneer cubes to the spinach puree and gently mix them to coat evenly. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavours of the spinach.
- Turn off the heat and garnish the Palak Paneer with a drizzle of fresh cream (if using).
- Serve the Palak Paneer hot with roti, naan, or rice.
Enjoy the wholesome and flavourful Palak Paneer as a nutritious and satisfying meal!