Palak Paneer Recipe
Palak Paneer is a classic Indian dish that combines fresh spinach and soft paneer cheese in a creamy, flavorful sauce. This dish offers a perfect balance of vibrant greens and mild cheese, making it a favorite in many households. It is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a great way to enjoy your vegetables.
The rich spices and smooth texture of the sauce bring out the best in the spinach while complementing the paneer’s subtle taste. Whether served with warm naan, roti, or steamed rice, palak paneer is a comforting and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. This recipe shows you how to make this beloved dish easily at home with simple ingredients.
Why You Need This Recipe
This palak paneer recipe is essential for anyone who loves flavorful, nutritious meals that are easy to prepare at home. It offers a delicious way to enjoy spinach while getting a good dose of protein from paneer. The creamy sauce, infused with traditional Indian spices, makes the dish comforting and satisfying without being heavy.
Moreover, this recipe uses simple ingredients that are easy to find, and the cooking process is straightforward, even for beginners. Whether you want a wholesome vegetarian meal or a dish to impress guests, palak paneer delivers on taste and health, making it a valuable addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients
This classic palak paneer recipe uses fresh ingredients to create a nutritious and flavorful dish. Here is a clear list of what you’ll need, along with calorie counts:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh spinach | 4 cups (120g) | 28 |
| Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) | 200 grams | 520 |
| Onion | 1 medium (150g) | 60 |
| Tomato | 1 medium (120g) | 22 |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | 13 |
| Ginger | 1 inch piece | 5 |
| Green chili | 1 small | 5 |
| Ghee or oil | 2 tablespoons | 240 |
| Cumin seeds | 1 teaspoon | 8 |
| Garam masala | 1 teaspoon | 7 |
| Turmeric powder | ½ teaspoon | 4 |
| Red chili powder | ½ teaspoon | 4 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Water | ½ cup | 0 |
Total calories (approximate for whole dish): 906
How to Prepare
Start by washing the spinach thoroughly and blanching it in boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain the spinach and immediately transfer it to cold water to retain its vibrant green color. Once cooled, blend the spinach into a smooth puree and set it aside.
Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Then, add finely chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and green chili. Sauté until the onions turn golden brown. Next, add chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and the oil begins to separate from the mixture.
Add turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine the spices. Pour in the spinach puree and mix everything together. Let it simmer on low heat for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Finally, add the paneer cubes and gently stir them into the spinach gravy. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors. Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
Pro Tips
Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and vibrant green color. If you prefer, you can also use frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess water in the dish.
When blending the spinach, adding a little water helps achieve a smooth consistency. Be careful not to overcook the spinach during blanching to keep it bright and fresh.
For a richer taste, try lightly frying the paneer cubes before adding them to the gravy. Adjust the spice levels to your preference by adding more or less chili. Lastly, let the palak paneer rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to deepen.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Palak paneer pairs wonderfully with warm naan, soft roti, or fluffy basmati rice to soak up the flavorful spinach gravy. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a simple cucumber raita or fresh salad to add a refreshing contrast.
You can also top the dish with a drizzle of fresh cream or a sprinkle of garam masala for extra richness and aroma. Toasted cumin seeds or chopped fresh cilantro make excellent garnishes that enhance both the taste and presentation.
Conclusion
Palak paneer is a delicious and nutritious dish that brings together the goodness of spinach and the creaminess of paneer in a flavorful blend of spices. This recipe makes it easy to enjoy a classic Indian favorite right at home, perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a comforting and satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with breads or rice. Adding palak paneer to your meal rotation is a great way to enjoy wholesome flavors while nourishing your body.
