Spinach and paneer, two of the most cherished ingredients in Indian cuisine, come together in Palak Paneer to create a dish that is both delicious and nutritious. This creamy, green curry, known for its vivid color and mild flavor, is a staple in North Indian cuisine and has found its way into the hearts of food lovers worldwide. Here, we'll explore an easy yet authentic recipe for making Palak Paneer at home, perfect for both seasoned chefs and cooking novices.
Ingredients for Palak Paneer
- 250 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
- 500 grams spinach, cleaned and blanched
- 2 green chilies
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, pureed or finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1⁄2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1⁄2 cup heavy cream or cashew cream for a richer taste
- Salt to taste
- 3-4 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1⁄4 cup water (optional, to adjust the gravy’s consistency)
Preparing the Spinach
- Wash spinach leaves thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add the spinach leaves. Blanch for 2-3 minutes, then quickly transfer to ice-cold water to halt the cooking process. This step helps to preserve the bright green color of spinach.
- Drain the spinach and blend it along with the green chilies into a smooth puree. Set aside.
🌱 Note: For a more vibrant color, blanching and then immersing spinach in ice-cold water is crucial.
Cooking Palak Paneer
- Heat the oil or ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan or kadhai. Once hot, add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
- Add finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Stir in ginger-garlic paste and cook for about a minute until the raw smell disappears.
- Add the tomato puree, cook until the mixture thickens and the oil begins to separate from the sides.
- Now, incorporate the powdered spices (turmeric, red chili, coriander, and garam masala). Mix well.
- Pour in the spinach puree and let it cook for around 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- If the gravy seems too thick, add some water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Simmer the mixture, then gently add the paneer cubes. Allow the flavors to meld together for another 3-5 minutes.
- Lastly, stir in the cream for a creamy finish. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
Garnishing and Serving
- Drizzle a teaspoon of cream on top for an eye-catching presentation.
- Sprinkle some kasoori methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for an aromatic finish.
Serve your freshly prepared Palak Paneer with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice for an authentic meal experience.
Common Variations
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Vegan Palak Paneer | Substitute paneer with tofu and use coconut cream instead of dairy cream. |
| Low-Carb Palak Paneer | Use paneer as is, but increase the use of cream and decrease the spinach for a richer taste with fewer carbs. |
| Palak Paneer with Mustard Greens | Incorporate mustard greens (sarson ka saag) with spinach for a slightly bitter and tangy taste. |
Throughout this recipe, keep in mind that the authenticity of flavors lies not just in the ingredients but also in the preparation technique, particularly in how you handle the spinach to retain its color and nutrients.
In wrapping up, this easy Palak Paneer recipe offers you a delightful way to bring the taste of India into your kitchen. Whether you're cooking for a family meal or looking to impress guests with an exotic dish, this recipe ensures a delicious outcome every time. The combination of creamy paneer with the earthy spinach, enriched with spices, creates a flavor profile that's comforting, yet exotic.
Can I make Palak Paneer in advance?
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Yes, you can prepare Palak Paneer a day ahead. It might taste even better as the flavors marinate, but reheat gently to avoid losing its vibrant green color.
What can I use as a substitute for paneer?
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Tofu is the best substitute for paneer if you’re looking for a vegan option. Feta cheese can also work for those seeking a cheese substitute, although the taste profile will differ.
How do I make the Palak Paneer more protein-rich?
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You can add ingredients like chickpeas or use high-protein paneer varieties. Another option is to include a handful of blanched and pureed kale along with spinach.
