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Palak Paneer

A nutritious and creamy spinach and paneer curry, a staple of Indian vegetarian cuisine.

Prep
15 min
Cook
25 min
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
4.5(3,200 ratings)
#vegetarian#healthy#north-indian

About This Recipe

Palak Paneer is a classic vegetarian dish that beautifully combines the goodness of spinach with the richness of paneer, a type of Indian cottage cheese. This dish is a favorite in Indian households, known for its vibrant green color and creamy texture. It is cooked with a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric, which enhance the flavors of the spinach without overpowering its natural taste. The paneer, soft and subtly flavored, absorbs the spices and spinach puree, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Often served with rice or naan, Palak Paneer is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal. The creaminess of the dish is sometimes enhanced with the addition of a touch of cream or yogurt. Originating from North India, Palak Paneer has become a popular dish across the country and among Indian food enthusiasts worldwide. It is a testament to the versatility and richness of Indian vegetarian cuisine, offering a perfect balance of taste and nutrition.

Ingredients

Serves 4

  • 250 gpaneer(cubed)
  • 500 gspinach(washed and chopped)
  • 2 tbspcooking oil
  • 1 tspcumin seeds
  • 1 tspgaram masala
  • 100 mlcream(optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Blanch the Spinach

    Boil the spinach in hot water for 2 minutes, then blend into a puree.

    Add a pinch of salt while blanching to retain color.

  2. 2

    Cook the Paneer

    Fry paneer cubes in oil until golden brown.

    Drain excess oil on paper towels.

  3. 3

    Prepare the Gravy

    In a pan, heat oil, add cumin seeds, then the spinach puree and spices.

    Cook on low heat to blend flavors.

  4. 4

    Combine Paneer and Gravy

    Add paneer cubes to the spinach gravy and simmer.

    Stir gently to avoid breaking paneer.

  5. 5

    Serve

    Garnish with cream and serve hot.

    Pair with naan or rice for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

  • Use fresh spinach for best taste

  • Adjust spices to taste

  • Paneer can be homemade or store-bought

Variations

  • Add boiled potatoes

  • Use tofu instead of paneer for a vegan version

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

History & Origin

Palak Paneer is a North Indian delicacy that showcases the richness of vegetarian cuisine. It is widely appreciated for its nutritional value and flavorful profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, but fresh spinach gives a better flavor and texture.

How do I keep the paneer soft?

Soak fried paneer in warm water for a few minutes.

Can I skip the cream?

Yes, you can skip it or use yogurt for a healthier option.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving · 4 servings total

Calories350kcal
Protein20g
Carbohydrates18g
Fat25g
Fiber6g
Protein20g
Carbs18g
Fat25g

Time Summary

Prep time15 min
Cook time25 min
Total time40 min

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