Palak Paneer Recipe
Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian dish that combines creamy spinach puree with soft paneer cheese. This vegetarian dish is not only full of flavor but also rich in nutrients, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. Serve it with warm naan or steamed rice for a complete and comforting experience.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 2 green chilies, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or yogurt
- 200g paneer, cubed
- Salt, to taste
- Lemon juice, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the ghee or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Add 1/2 cup water and bring to a simmer. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the spinach puree to the skillet over medium heat.
- Add the heavy cream or yogurt and stir well. Add the cubed paneer and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through. Season with salt and lemon juice to taste.
- Serve hot with naan or rice.
Tips
For a vegan version, replace paneer with firm tofu and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Make sure to blend the spinach mixture until very smooth for a creamy texture. You can also add a teaspoon of fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) for extra flavor.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, frozen spinach works well in this recipe. Just thaw and squeeze out any excess water before using.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, Palak Paneer can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
- Is there a substitute for paneer? Firm tofu is an excellent substitute for paneer, making it a great vegan option.
- What do I serve with Palak Paneer? Serve it with warm naan, chapati, or steamed basmati rice for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Palak Paneer is a rich and creamy dish that’s perfect for anyone who loves Indian flavors. The combination of spinach, spices, and soft paneer creates a comforting and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. Enjoy this vegetarian classic with your favorite flatbread or rice and savor the delightful flavors of India!
