Palak Paneer Recipe – A Delicious and Nutritious Indian Spinach and Paneer Curry
Palak Paneer is a beloved Punjabi dish that brings together the goodness of spinach and the creamy texture of paneer (Indian cottage cheese). This comforting curry is not only a rich source of protein but also packed with nutrients from spinach. The recipe features tender paneer cubes cooked in a flavorful spinach gravy with aromatic spices. Whether enjoyed with naan, roti, or rice, this dish is a favorite in every household. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Palak Paneer in your own kitchen, bringing authentic flavors to your dining table.
Palak Paneer – A Nutritious Indian Vegetarian Dish
Cuisine: Punjabi
Course: Dinner
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients for Palak Paneer:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (cottage cheese) | 250 grams, chopped |
| Spinach (palak) | 500 grams, washed and chopped |
| Tomato | 1, pureed |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, grated |
| Ginger | 2 inches, grated |
| Green Chilies | 2, chopped |
| 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 | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 15 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 9 grams |
| Fat | 23 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
Instructions to Make Palak Paneer:
-
Prepare the Spinach:
Start by thoroughly washing the spinach leaves. Once cleaned, chop them into small pieces and steam the spinach for 4 to 5 minutes. This helps retain its nutrients and softens the spinach. After steaming, let it cool down slightly and then transfer it to a blender. Blend the spinach into a smooth puree. -
Cook the Spices:
In a large pan, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and sauté them for a few seconds until they splutter, releasing their aroma. Next, add the grated ginger, garlic, and chopped green chilies to the pan. Sauté these ingredients for about 15 seconds, letting their flavors meld together. -
Prepare the Tomato Base:
Add the pureed tomato to the pan along with turmeric powder. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and blend into the spices. -
Add Spinach Puree and Spices:
Now, add the prepared spinach puree to the pan. Stir the mixture well, incorporating the spinach with the spices. Add cumin powder, cinnamon powder, garam masala powder, and salt. Let the curry cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to come together. -
Add Paneer and Cream:
Finally, add the cubes of paneer to the cooked spinach gravy. Stir gently to coat the paneer with the flavorful spinach mixture. To enhance the richness of the dish, add the cream and mix thoroughly. Let the curry simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring that the paneer absorbs all the delicious flavors. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Your flavorful Palak Paneer is ready! Serve it hot with your favorite Indian bread like roti, naan, or paratha. It also pairs wonderfully with steamed rice. For an authentic Punjabi meal, enjoy your Palak Paneer with Amritsari Dal and Mint Tawa Paratha.
Tips for a Perfect Palak Paneer:
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Fresh Spinach: Use fresh, tender spinach leaves for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen spinach, make sure it is thoroughly thawed and excess water is drained.
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Creamy Texture: Adjust the cream quantity based on your preference. For a richer dish, you can add more cream, or for a lighter version, reduce the amount.
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Paneer: If you don’t have store-bought paneer, you can make it at home by curdling milk with lemon juice or vinegar. Once made, cut it into cubes and add to the curry.
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Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. If you prefer a spicier dish, add more green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder.
Palak Paneer is not just a flavorful dish but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Packed with protein from paneer and iron from spinach, it makes for a perfect meal for vegetarians. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this vibrant, green curry will be a hit on any occasion. Enjoy the goodness of Palak Paneer and bring the rich tastes of Punjabi cuisine into your kitchen!
