Palak Paneer Recipe (Indian Spinach Paneer)

Palak Paneer is a popular North Indian dish made with fresh spinach (palak) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a rich, flavorful gravy. This dish is a staple in many Indian households and is enjoyed with roti, naan, or rice. It is nutritious, packed with iron and protein, and has a creamy texture that makes it a favorite among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians.

Ingredients:

1. 200g paneer (cubed)
2. 250g fresh spinach (palak)
3. 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
4. 2 medium tomatoes (pureed)
5. 2 cloves garlic (minced)
6. 1-inch ginger (grated)
7. 2 green chilies (chopped)
8. 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
9. 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
10. 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
11. 1 teaspoon coriander powder
12. 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
13. 1/4 cup fresh cream (optional)
14. 1 tablespoon butter or ghee
15. 1 tablespoon oil
16. Salt to taste
17. Water as needed

Instructions:Blanch the Spinach:

1. • Boil water in a pot and add the washed spinach leaves.
   • Blanch for 2 minutes, then transfer to ice-cold water to retain the green color.
   • Blend into a smooth puree using minimal water and set aside.
2. Prepare the Gravy:
   • Heat oil and butter in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
   • Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
   • Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chilies; sauté for a minute.
   • Add tomato puree, turmeric powder, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until oil separates.
3. Combine Spinach and Paneer:
   • Add the spinach puree to the pan and mix well.
   • Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Add paneer cubes and garam masala. Stir gently and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Finishing Touches:
   • Stir in fresh cream for a richer taste (optional).
   • Adjust salt and consistency with water if needed.
   • Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice.

Tips:

• For a smoky flavor, you can add a piece of charcoal with ghee and cover the dish for a minute.
• Using homemade paneer enhances the freshness and texture of the dish.
• Adding a little kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) enhances the flavor.
• You can shallow-fry the paneer cubes before adding them for extra taste and texture.
• Adjust the spice levels according to your preference.

Nutrition (Per Serving Approx.):

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fats: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Iron: 20% of Daily Value (DV)
• Calcium: 25% of DV

Enjoy this delicious and healthy Palak Paneer at home!

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