Spinach paneer recipe (palak paneer)

Palak Paneer Recipe: A Delicious Spinach & Cheese Delight

When it comes to wholesome, nutrient-packed dishes that offer both flavor and health benefits, Palak Paneer (Spinach Cheese Curry) tops the list. This beloved North Indian recipe combines tender spinach (palak) with soft cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a rich and creamy curry. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this simple yet tasty dish is perfect for impressing your family or friends. Let's dive into the magic of creating this vibrant, green delight!

Why You'll Love Palak Paneer

• Nutritious : Spinach is a powerhouse of iron, vitamins A, C, and K, while paneer is packed with protein and calcium.
• Flavorsome : The blend of spices, garlic, and creamy spinach makes for a comforting yet flavorful meal.
• Quick & Easy : With a few basic ingredients and a straightforward process, you'll have a restaurant-worthy dish in under an hour.

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Ingredients You'll Need:

• 500g spinach (palak) – Fresh and vibrant
• 200g paneer – Cut into cubes
• 1 large onion – Finely chopped
• 2 medium tomatoes - pureed
• 1-inch ginger – grated
• 4-5 garlic cloves – Finely chopped
• 2-3 green chilies – Slit lengthwise
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp garam masala
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• ½ tsp cumin powder
• 2 tbsp fresh cream or yogurt (optional)
• 2 tbsp ghee or oil
• Salt to taste
• Water as required

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Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Blanch the Spinach:

Start by washing the spinach thoroughly under cold water. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the spinach leaves. Blanch them for 2-3 minutes until they soften and turn a vibrant green color. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice-cold water to stop the cooking process and retain the bright color.

Once cooled, drain the spinach and blend it into a smooth puree. Set it aside.

2. Prepare the Paneer:

Cut the paneer into cubes. For a richer flavor, you can shallow fry the paneer in a little oil until golden brown. Alternatively, you can use the paneer as is for a softer texture.

3. Sauté the aromatics:

In a pan, heat 2 tablespoons of ghee or oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, toss in the chopped garlic and sauté until golden brown. Add ginger, green chilies, and onions, cooking until the onions turn soft and translucent.

4. Cook the Tomatoes & Spices:

Add the pureed tomatoes to the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes until the oil starts separating from the masala. Add turmeric, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt, and cook for another 2 minutes to infuse the flavors.

5. Add the Spinach Puree:

Now, gently stir in the spinach puree and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes. The spinach will absorb the flavors of the masala. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of water to achieve your desired consistency.

6.Add Paneer:

Gently add the paneer cubes into the spinach gravy and cook for another 3-4 minutes. At this point, you can also stir in a tablespoon or two of cream or yogurt for added richness, though this step is optional.

7. Finish with Garam Masala:

Sprinkle garam masala over the dish and give it a final stir. Allow the flavors to meld for a minute before turning off the heat.

Serving Suggestions:

Palak Paneer pairs perfectly with various Indian breads such as naan, roti, or paratha . You can also serve it alongside steamed basmati rice or jeera rice for a complete meal.

For a special touch, garnish the dish with a swirl of cream and some freshly chopped coriander leaves. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can also enhance the taste.

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Tips for the Perfect Palak Paneer:

• Blanching spinach : This step is key to maintaining the vibrant green color of the dish.
• Paneer freshness : Fresh, soft paneer makes all the difference. You can use store-bought or make paneer at home for a fresher taste.
• Adjusting spice : Modify the level of green chilies or garam masala to suit your taste preferences.
• Healthy twist : For a lighter version, skip the cream or substitute it with low-fat yogurt.

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Health Benefits of Palak Paneer:

Not only is this dish bursting with flavor, but it's also packed with nutrients. Spinach is known for its high iron content, making this a great dish for those who need an iron boost. Additionally, the protein in paneer makes it an excellent option for vegetarians or anyone looking for a filling meal. Paneer is also low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for those following a low-carb diet.

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Conclusion:

Palak Paneer is more than just a dish; it's an experience of textures and flavors that come together to create a wholesome, satisfying meal. Whether you're enjoying a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this vibrant green curry will not disappoint.

So, why not give it a try? Happy cooking!