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Palak Paneer Recipe

Jada Parker
Palak Paneer is a beloved North Indian dish featuring tender paneer cubes in a smooth, spiced spinach curry. This healthy, protein-rich recipe is simple to make and perfect for pairing with naan, roti, or rice. It’s a delightful way to enjoy the goodness of spinach while savoring the creamy, aromatic flavors of Indian cuisine.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Spinach Puree:

  • 4 cups fresh spinach palak, washed and trimmed
  • 2 cups water for blanching
  • Ice water for cooling spinach

For the Curry Base:

  • 2 tablespoons ghee or vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1- inch ginger grated
  • 2 green chilies slit lengthwise
  • 1 medium tomato pureed
  • 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • A pinch of red chili powder optional
  • Salt to taste

Additional Ingredients:

  • 200 g paneer cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons fresh cream
  • 1/4 cup water to adjust consistency

For Garnish:

  • A drizzle of fresh cream
  • A sprinkle of kasuri methi dried fenugreek leaves

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Spinach Puree
  • Bring 2 cups of water to a boil and blanch spinach for 2-3 minutes.
  • Immediately transfer spinach to ice water to lock in its green color.
  • Blend the spinach into a smooth puree and set aside.
  • Cook the Aromatic Base
  • Heat ghee or oil in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
  • Sauté onions until golden brown. Add garlic, ginger, and green chilies, cooking until fragrant.
  • Add Spices and Tomato
  • Stir in the tomato puree, turmeric, coriander powder, and red chili powder.
  • Cook until the oil separates from the masala.
  • Combine Spinach Puree
  • Mix in the spinach puree with the masala. Add water to adjust consistency and simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  • Add Paneer and Cream
  • Gently add paneer cubes and let them cook for 2-3 minutes.
  • Stir in fresh cream and garam masala. Adjust salt to taste.
  • Garnish and Serve
  • Garnish with a drizzle of cream and a sprinkle of kasuri methi. Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.

Notes

  • Use fresh spinach for the best color and flavor.
  • To keep paneer soft, soak it in warm water before adding to the curry.
  • Adjust the spices based on your heat preference.
Keyword healthy paneer recipe, North Indian cuisine, palak paneer recipe, spinach curry, vegetarian Indian dish