Traditional Indian Recipe: Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is a popular North Indian dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and spinach (palak). This nutritious and delicious dish combines soft cubes of paneer with a creamy spinach sauce, flavored with a blend of spices. Here’s a detailed guide to making authentic Palak Paneer at home.

Ingredients

For the Paneer:

• 250g paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon oil

For the Spinach Gravy:

• 500g fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cream for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Blanch the Spinach

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the chopped spinach leaves and blanch for 2-3 minutes.
2. Drain the spinach and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to retain the green color.
3. Drain again and blend the spinach to a smooth puree. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Paneer

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the paneer cubes and lightly fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy

1. In the same pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil or ghee over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, and green chilies (if using), and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and red chili powder. Cook the spices for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
6. Add the tomato puree and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil begins to separate from the masala, about 10 minutes.
7. Stir in the spinach puree and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or yogurt. Season with salt to taste.

Step 4: Combine Paneer and Gravy

1. Add the fried paneer cubes to the spinach gravy.
2. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, ensuring the paneer is well-coated with the sauce and heated through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish with a drizzle of fresh cream if desired.
2. Serve hot with roti, naan, or steamed basmati rice.

Tips for Perfect Palak Paneer

• Spinach Prep: Blanching the spinach and then shocking it in ice water helps retain its vibrant green color.
• Paneer Quality: Use fresh, high-quality paneer for the best results. You can also make paneer at home for a fresher taste.
• Cream or Yogurt: For a lighter version, use yogurt instead of heavy cream.
• Spice Level: Adjust the green chilies and red chili powder to suit your heat preference.

Palak Paneer is a delightful dish that combines the wholesome goodness of spinach with the rich texture of paneer. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or a comforting meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Enjoy your culinary journey with this traditional Palak Paneer!