‎Palak Paneer stands as an iconic vegetarian dish within the realm of Indian culinary treasures. Its origins rooted in North Indian cuisine, this flavorful dish embodies a harmonious blend of spinach (palak) and Indian cottage cheese (paneer), infused with aromatic spices. Renowned for its vibrant green hue and wholesome flavors, Palak Paneer is a testament to the culinary artistry of India.

What is Palak Paneer?

Palak Paneer is a vegetarian dish where fresh spinach leaves are blanched, pureed, and combined with chunks of paneer in a rich, creamy gravy. The spinach lends the dish its vibrant green color, while the paneer adds a mild, creamy texture, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures in every bite.

Ingredients for Serving 4:

• 300g fresh spinach leaves, washed and blanched
• 200g paneer, cubed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1-inch ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• Salt to taste

Method/Instructions:

Step 1: Blanche and Puree the Spinach

1. Boil water in a pot and blanch the spinach leaves for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
2. Immediately transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice water to retain its vibrant green color.
3. Drain the spinach and blend it into a smooth puree. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Paneer

1. Heat a pan and lightly fry the paneer cubes until they turn golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, add a teaspoon of ghee/oil and sauté the chopped onions until golden brown.

Step 3: Create the Palak Paneer Gravy

1. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chilies to the pan. Sauté for a minute.
2. Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil separates.
3. Add cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook for a minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the spinach puree and simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add the fried paneer cubes and gently mix them into the spinach gravy.
6. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Adjust seasoning with salt as per taste.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Transfer the Palak Paneer to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with a swirl of fresh cream or a sprinkle of garam masala for an added touch of flavor.
3. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: ~280 kcal
• Protein: ~15g
• Fat: ~20g
• Carbohydrates: ~12g
• Fiber: ~4g

Palak Paneer is a powerhouse of nutrients, rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins from spinach, while paneer provides protein and calcium, making it a wholesome and nutritious meal choice for vegetarians.

Embrace the vibrant colors, relish the creamy texture, and indulge in the wholesome goodness of Palak Paneer, a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also nourishes the body with its nutrient-packed ingredients.