Palak Paneer Recipe

Imagine gathering around a beautifully set table with your loved ones, where the main star is a vibrant bowl of Palak Paneer. This beloved Indian dish, with its rich velvety spinach puree and soft, creamy paneer cubes, exudes warmth and comfort. It’s the kind of meal that invites stories, laughter, and the building of cherished memories. What makes Palak Paneer extraordinary is not just its delightful taste but also the simplicity with which you can create this magic at home. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe brings together the wholesomeness of spinach and the luxurious feel of paneer in a harmony that’s difficult to resist. Let’s dive into the heart of this recipe and bring a touch of elegance and tradition to your next meal.

Recipe Summary:

Ingredients:

• 200 grams fresh spinach leaves
• 200 grams paneer, cut into cubes
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch ginger, minced
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp garam masala
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 2 tbsp cream
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• Salt, to taste
• Water, as needed
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Start by blanching the spinach. Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the spinach leaves. Cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted, then transfer immediately to a bowl of ice water to retain the color. Drain and blend the spinach into a smooth puree. Set aside.
2. Heat oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Stir in the minced garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the mixture.
5. Add the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Stir well to combine the spices.
6. Add the spinach puree and mix thoroughly. Season with salt to taste. Cook for about 5 minutes, adding a little water if the mixture is too thick.
7. Gently fold in the paneer cubes into the spinach mixture. Let it simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. Finish with a swirl of cream and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
9. Serve hot with naan, roti, or basmati rice.

Helpful Tips:

• If you prefer a smokier flavor, you can lightly fry the paneer cubes before adding them to the spinach puree.
• For a vegan version, substitute paneer with tofu and cream with coconut milk.
• If fresh spinach is not available, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw and blend it into a puree.

Storage Instructions:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

Suggested Pairings:

Palak Paneer pairs wonderfully with warm naan, roti, or fragrant basmati rice. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber raita and a light salad. A cup of masala chai after dinner would perfectly round off the experience.

At Zynahz, we believe in bringing joy and creativity into the kitchen. It’s our mission to inspire you with recipes that celebrate family, tradition, and the joy of cooking. We encourage you to try this Palak Paneer Recipe and share your results with us. Don’t forget to spread the love by sharing this recipe with friends and family. Dive into more delightful recipes on Zynahz, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter to stay updated with the latest culinary inspirations. Happy cooking from Zynahz!