Palak Paneer Recipe
Palak Paneer, a quintessential dish from Punjabi cuisine, offers a delightful combination of creamy spinach and soft cottage cheese, making it a favorite among vegetarians and an excellent choice for a hearty dinner. This vibrant green dish not only pleases the palate but also provides a nutritious boost, being rich in protein and essential vitamins. Let’s dive into the details of making this scrumptious Palak Paneer that will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Cottage Cheese) | 250 grams – chopped |
| Spinach | 500 grams – washed and chopped |
| Tomato | 1 – pureed |
| Garlic | 2 cloves – minced |
| Ginger | 2 inches – grated |
| Green Chillies | 2 – slit lengthwise |
| Cumin Seeds | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cumin Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Turmeric Powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Garam Masala Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Cream | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | to taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Servings: 4
Instructions
To create the luscious Palak Paneer, start by thoroughly washing the spinach. After washing, chop the spinach and set it aside.
-
Blanch the Spinach:
In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Once boiling, add the chopped spinach and turn off the heat. Allow the spinach to soak in the hot water for 2 to 3 minutes. This step helps retain the vibrant green color and nutrients. -
Prepare the Spinach Puree:
After the spinach has cooled slightly, remove it from the water and place it in a blender or mixer. Blend the spinach into a smooth puree and set it aside. -
Sauté the Spices:
In a large kadhai (wok), heat the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the cumin seeds, minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chillies. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic turns golden and aromatic. -
Add the Tomato Puree:
Now, pour in the pureed tomato and sprinkle in the turmeric powder. Cook the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. -
Combine the Spinach:
After the tomato mixture is well cooked, add the spinach puree to the pan. Stir in the cumin powder, garam masala powder, cinnamon powder, and salt. Mix everything well and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This step will allow the flavors to integrate beautifully. -
Finish with Paneer and Cream:
Finally, add the cream and gently fold in the cubes of paneer. Allow the mixture to simmer until it reaches a gentle boil. Once it bubbles, turn off the heat.
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful dining experience, serve your Palak Paneer hot with Dal Tadka, Bundi Raita, Cumin Rice, and Phulka. This combination not only complements the flavors of the dish but also ensures a balanced meal rich in nutrients.
Enjoy your homemade Palak Paneer, a dish that epitomizes love in cooking, and brings the warmth of Punjabi tradition to your dinner table! The vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and creamy texture are sure to impress family and friends alike.
