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Palak Paneer Recipe

Palak Paneer Recipe

Sashikanta Nayak
Palak Paneer, a beloved Indian dish, combines the goodness of fresh spinach and soft paneer, delighting taste buds and promoting well-being. This article provides a step-by-step guide to preparing this flavorful delicacy. From selecting and blanching fresh spinach to sautéing onions and adding an array of spices, each stage is carefully detailed. The rich health benefits of Palak Paneer, including nutrients for bone health and good vision, are highlighted. Customizable variations, tips, and FAQs add depth to the culinary journey. Embrace this delectable recipe and experience the vibrant flavors of India in your very own kitchen.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 1 people

Ingredients
  

  • 100 grams Fresh spinach leaves Pureed
  • 200 grams Paneer Cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoon Ghee clarified butter
  • 1 medium sized Onions Chopped
  • 1 medium sized Tomato Chopped
  • Garlic and Ginger paste
  • 2 Green chilies Chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon Turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cumin powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Coriander powder
  • Fresh cream
  • Salt to taste
  • Water

Instructions
 

For Preparation of Palak Paneer Recipe, you need to go through the following steps:

    Preparing Palak (Spinach):

    • To ensure the best taste and nutrition, choose fresh and vibrant green spinach leaves. Avoid wilted or yellowish leaves, as they may not yield the desired flavors.
    • Wash the spinach leaves well to get rid of any dirt or contaminants. The lush spinach leaves should be placed in a large pot with bubbling water and submerged. They should be left in the heat for a short time until they develop a soft and yielding texture. To keep the leaves bright green in color, drain them and immediately submerge them in ice water.
    • Take the blanched spinach leaves and blend them into a smooth puree. You can add a splash of water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.

    Preparing Paneer (Indian Cottage Cheese):

    • Paneer is a crucial component of Palak Paneer. The paneer should be prepared by cutting it into small cubes and lightly frying them till golden brown.
    • Set aside the fried paneer cubes for later use in the recipe.

    Cooking Process of Palak Paneer Recipe:

      Sauteing the Onions and Tomatoes:

      • In a pan, heat some ghee or oil and add cumin seeds.
      • Add finely chopped onions and cook them until they are transparent after they begin to sizzle.
      • After that, add the chopped green chilies and add garlic, and ginger paste, and continue to sauté for another minute.

      Adding Spices and Flavorings:

      • Moving on, incorporate the finely chopped tomatoes into the pan, allowing them to simmer gently until they reach a state of softness and mushiness.
      • With the tomatoes lending their natural sweetness to the mix, it's the perfect juncture to introduce an ensemble of aromatic spices.
      • Sprinkle in the golden hues of turmeric powder, the earthy notes of cumin powder, the subtle warmth of coriander powder, and the captivating allure of garam masala.
      • To bring it all together in a harmonious symphony of tastes, stir diligently, ensuring every ingredient intermingles flawlessly to create a palatable masterpiece.

      Incorporating the Spinach Puree:

      • Gently pour in the prepared spinach puree and mix it thoroughly with the spice mixture.
      • Give it a few minutes to cook so that the flavors may mingle.

      Adding the Paneer Cubes:

      • Carefully add the fried paneer cubes to the spinach gravy.
      • Stir gently to ensure that the paneer is coated with the luscious green sauce.

      Simmering to Perfection:

      • Allow the Palak Paneer to simmer on low heat for a few more minutes, ensuring the paneer absorbs the flavors of the spinach and spices.
      • If necessary, taste and adjust the salt and spices.

      How to Serve Palak Paneer Recipe:

      • Once the Palak Paneer has reached the desired consistency, turn off the heat.
      • Garnish the dish with a drizzle of fresh cream to enhance its richness.
      • Serve hot with fluffy Naan, Steamed Rice or Jeera Rice (Cumin Rice), and Paratha for a complete Indian meal experience.