Introduction
Palak Paneer is a popular vegetarian dish in Indian cuisine that features paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a rich and flavorful spinach sauce. This dish combines the health benefits of spinach, rich in iron and vitamins, with the protein-packed paneer, making it a nutritious option for any meal. The creamy texture of the sauce, spiced with traditional Indian spices, pairs beautifully with rice or Indian bread, such as naan or roti. Palak Paneer is not only delicious but also showcases the vibrant colors and flavors of Indian cooking.
Ingredients
- 250 g fresh spinach leaves, washed
- 200 g paneer, cubed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, grated
- 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
- 2-3 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh cream or yogurt (for garnishing, optional)
Instructions
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Blanch the Spinach:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the spinach leaves. Blanch for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Drain and immediately transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice water to retain its vibrant color. Once cool, drain again and blend into a smooth puree.
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Cook the Onion and Spices:
- In a large skillet, heat the oil or ghee over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Then add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Tomato Puree:
- Add the tomato puree to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oil separates from the mixture.
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Combine Spinach and Paneer:
- Add the spinach puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt to the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Gently add the cubed paneer to the spinach mixture and cook for another 5 minutes to allow the paneer to absorb the flavors. Stir in the garam masala.
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Serve:
- Garnish with a drizzle of fresh cream or a dollop of yogurt if desired. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Health Notes
- Palak Paneer is a nutritious dish packed with vitamins from spinach and protein from paneer. It can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, but be mindful of the portion sizes due to its calorie content from cream and oil. For a lighter version, consider using less oil and substituting paneer with tofu.
How to Enjoy
- Palak Paneer is best served hot and pairs well with various Indian breads or steamed rice. It makes a satisfying main dish for lunch or dinner and is excellent for sharing with family and friends.
Tips
- Enhancing Flavor: For a smoky flavor, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or cook the spinach over a low flame for a few minutes before blending.
- Creaminess Adjustment: For a creamier texture, blend in a bit of fresh cream or yogurt after cooking. Adjust the quantity based on your preference.
- Paneer Tips: If you prefer a firmer texture, lightly fry the paneer cubes in a bit of oil until golden before adding them to the dish.
- Vegetable Variations: You can add other vegetables like peas or bell peppers to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Palak Paneer can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain the consistency.
