Prepare Delicious Palak Paneer In Just 5 Simple Steps

Imagine intertwining the goodness of spinach and the creamy texture of paneer - that's exactly what it feels like with every spoonful! This popular dish offers a delectable mix of tantalizing spices such as cumin and turmeric. The result? An eye-catching vibrant green spinach puree that's as soothing to the eyes as it is to your taste buds. Whether you enjoy it with fluffy naan or aromatic rice, its rich colors and indescribable flavors make every meal a feast.

Here’s a delicious and easy recipe for Palak Paneer, a popular Indian dish made with spinach and paneer (Indian cottage cheese):

1. Ingredients

For the Spinach Puree:

– 250 grams fresh spinach (palak)
– 1-2 green chilies (adjust to taste)
– 1 tablespoon oil or ghee

For the Curry:

– 200 grams paneer, cut into cubes
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1-2 tomatoes, pureed
– 1 teaspoon ginger-garlic paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or yogurt (optional, for richness)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

2. Instructions

Step 1- Prepare the Spinach:

– Boil water in a pot. Add a pinch of salt and the spinach leaves. Blanch them for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
– Drain and immediately transfer the spinach to ice-cold water to retain the green color. Once cooled, blend it to a smooth puree along with the green chilies.

Step 2- Fry the Paneer:

– In a pan, heat a tablespoon of oil or ghee. Lightly fry the paneer cubes until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 3- Make the Curry:

– In the same pan, add more oil or ghee if needed. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
– Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
– Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
– Add the tomato puree, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the oil separates from the mixture.

Step 4- Combine Spinach and Paneer:

– Add the spinach puree to the pan. Mix well and simmer for about 5 minutes.
– Stir in the garam masala and the fried paneer cubes. If using cream or yogurt, add it now and mix well. Adjust salt and spices to taste.

Step 5- Finish and Serve:

– Cook for another 2-3 minutes. If you want a tangy flavor, add lemon juice.
– Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice. Enjoy your delicious Palak Paneer!