Palak Paneer
Ingredients
- 5 oz spinach washed and cleaned, about 6 cups packaged spinach
- 1 cup cubed paneer in one bite, about 4 ounces paneer
- 1 chopped green chilli
- 1 table spoon oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds – jeera
- 1/8 teaspoon asafoetida – hing
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric – haldi
- 1/2 teaspoon add salt to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 table spoon wholemeal flour
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup finely chopped tomato
- 2 table spoon grated paneer for garnish
Instructions
-
First blanch the spinach, this helps maintain the bright color of the spinach. To blanch spinach, boil about 6 cups of water in a saucepan and let the spinach boil for one minute. Drain the water and place the spinach in ice water for about two minutes. Drain the water.
-
Blend the spinach, ginger and green chilli. The spinach should be creamy.
-
Soak the diced paneer in about three cups of hot water, for about 5 minutes. This helps give the paneer a soft texture. Set it aside.
-
Spinach may splatter during cooking, use a larger pot. Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Test the heat by adding a cumin seed to the oil; if it breaks immediately it is ready.
-
Add cumin seeds and asafoetida. After the cumin seeds have cracked, add the blended spinach and mix. Add coriander, salt and sugar, mix.
-
When the spinach starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 5-6 minutes, partially covering the pan, because the spinach will splatter. I don’t cover the pan completely because this helps keep the green color of the spinach.
-
Mix the flour with 1/2 cup of water and add it to the spinach, also add the cream. Mix it well and let it cook for five minutes. If necessary, add a little more water.
-
Drain the paneer, gently add it to the spinach and let it simmer for about five minutes.
-
Palak paneer is ready, add cherry tomatoes and turn off the heat. Garnish it with grated or crumbled paneer.
Palak Paneer It is one of the most popular paneer dishes of North India and a favorite in Indian restaurants around the world. This creamy and flavorful dish features tender cubes of paneer nestled in a rich spinach sauce, making it a perfect main course for any meal.
With its vibrant green color and delicious combination of spinach and paneer, Palak Paneer pairs wonderfully with roti, naanOR paratha. This simplified version of the recipe uses only a few ingredients, allowing the natural flavors of the spinach and paneer to shine while remaining healthy and nutritious.
Cultural and traditional importance
Paneer dishes are a staple in North Indian cuisine and Palak Paneer it is undoubtedly one of the most loved. Traditionally prepared in Indian households and served during special occasions or family gatherings, this dish showcases the versatility of paneer and the use of leafy greens in Indian cuisine.
Palak Paneer it is often served with focaccias such as naan OR parathaand its creamy texture and slightly spicy flavor make it a crowd pleaser.
This simplified recipe doesn’t compromise on taste, while offering a more convenient way of preparation Palak Paneer At home. Blanching the spinach helps maintain its bright green color, making the dish visually appealing as well as delicious.
Recipe variations from Manjula’s kitchen While Palak Paneer is a classic dish in its own right, you can explore other paneer recipes and spinach variations Manjula’s cuisine:
Butter Paneer Masala: A rich and creamy tomato-based dish, perfect for those who love a sweeter and more delicate flavour.
Aloo Palak (potato spinach): A delicious vegetarian dish that combines spinach with tender potatoes, offering another way to enjoy spinach in your meals.
Panel saw: A similar dish that incorporates other leafy greens, like mustard, along with spinach for a different flavor profile.
Matar Paneer: A tasty combination of paneer and peas cooked in spicy tomato sauce, offering a wonderful variation for paneer lovers.
Health benefits and dietary considerations Palak Paneer it is not only delicious but also full of nutrients. Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that promote overall health.
The use of paneer adds a good amount of protein and calcium, making this dish a balanced meal that supports both muscle and bone health.
For those who want to make a lighter version of Palak Paneeryou can replace the cream with lighter cream or yogurt. The dish is also naturally gluten-free (ensure the flour used is gluten-free or omit it), making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. If you are vegan, tofu can be used in place of paneer to create a delicious dish Palak Tofu.
Serving Tips Palak Paneer can be served with a variety of Indian breads, such as roti, naanOR paratha. It also pairs well with rice dishes such as Jeera Rice OR Simple basmati rice for a more complete meal. To add texture and flavor, you can garnish the dish with freshly grated paneer or a drizzle of cream.
For a fancier meal, serve Palak Paneer along with other classic Indian dishes like Add Tadka OR Alo Gobi to create a balanced vegetarian cream.
Conclusion Palak Paneer is a quintessential North Indian dish that combines the creamy richness of paneer and the nourishing goodness of spinach. This simplified recipe allows you to prepare this dish quickly, without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or planning a special meal, Palak Paneer it will definitely be a success. Try this recipe today and enjoy one of India’s most loved dishes in the comfort of your home.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How do I keep the color of spinach in Palak Paneer bright?
Blanching spinach is key to maintaining its vibrant green color. Boil the spinach for about a minute, then immediately transfer it to ice water to stop the cooking process.
Can I make Palak Paneer vegan?
Yes, you can replace paneer with tofu and use coconut or cashew cream instead of cream to make a vegan version of this dish.
What are some variations of Palak Paneer that I can try?
You can try dishes like Saag Paneerwhich uses a combination of leafy greens, or Alo Palakwhich combines spinach with potatoes for a different version of the classic.
How do I serve Palak Paneer?
Palak Paneer goes wonderfully with Indian bread naan, rotiOR paratha. It can also be served with Jeera Rice OR Simple basmati rice.
Can I prepare Palak Paneer in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the spinach puree and paneer in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and when you’re ready to serve, gently reheat and combine the two for a fresh, delicious meal.
