Authentic Indian Palak Paneer Recipe

Ingredients

  • 200 grams of fresh paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
  • 2 cups of fresh spinach
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 green chilli, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon of ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon of red chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala powder
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh cream (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the spinach thoroughly and blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. After blanching, quickly transfer the spinach to ice-cold water to stop the cooking process and retain its green color.
  2. Once the spinach is cool, drain the water and blend it in a mixer to make a smooth puree. Set it aside for later use.
  3. Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once the seeds start to crackle, add finely chopped onions and green chilies, sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
  4. Add the ginger-garlic paste to the pan and sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.
  5. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they are soft. Now add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coricumin powder. Mix well and cook until the oil starts to separate from the spices.
  6. Add the spinach puree and salt to the pan. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes on medium heat.
  7. Cut the paneer into small cubes and add them to the spinach gravy. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the paneer absorbs the flavors.
  8. Add garam masala powder and mix well. Turn off the heat and add the fresh cream (if using), mix gently.
  9. Palak Paneer is ready to serve. Enjoy it hot with roti, naan or rice.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add a handful of fresh fenugreek leaves (methi) along with spinach for a unique flavor.
  • Replace paneer with tofu for a vegan version of palak paneer.
  • Add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) for an added layer of aroma.
  • Garnish with roasted cashews or almonds for a crunchy texture.
  • Add a teaspoon of lemon juice to give a tangy twist to the dish.
  • For a spicier version, increase the amount of green chilies or add a teaspoon of garam masala.
  • For a creamier texture, substitute fresh cream with coconut milk.
  • Try using kale or collard greens instead of spinach for a different flavor profile.
  • Add a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors and enhance the taste.
  • For a richer taste, sauté the paneer cubes in ghee before adding them to the gravy.

Recipe overview

This recipe guide is for the beloved North Indian dish Palak Paneer. Palak Paneer is a popular vegetarian delicacy made of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) in a thick paste made from puréed spinach and seasoned with ginger, garlic, and a variety of spices. This hearty and flavorful dish is healthy and packed with nutrients from spinach and paneer. This recipe requires minimal ingredients that are easily available and takes around 30-40 minutes to prepare. This recipe is perfect for a quick weekday meal, and it also works as a great option for a dinner party due to its rich and vibrant flavors. Expect a beautiful blend of spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors with each bite of this dish. You can serve Palak Paneer with warm roti, naan, or rice for a complete, satisfying meal. Whether you are a fan of Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time, this easy-to-follow recipe will guide you to make a perfect Palak Paneer at home. Enjoy cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
    Yes, you can use frozen spinach as a substitute for fresh spinach. Thaw the frozen spinach and make sure to squeeze out any excess water before using it in the recipe.
  2. Can I use store-bought paneer?
    Yes, you can use store-bought paneer if fresh paneer is not available. Cut the store-bought paneer into cubes and use it in the recipe as directed.
  3. Is it necessary to blanch the spinach?
    Blanching the spinach helps to retain its vibrant green color and removes any raw taste. It is recommended to blanch the spinach before making the puree for the best results.
  4. Can I make palak paneer ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make palak paneer ahead of time. Cook the dish as per the instructions and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving.
  5. Can I skip adding cream?
    Yes, adding cream is optional. It adds richness to the dish, but you can omit it if you prefer a lighter version of palak paneer.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Pan - A large, deep pan or skillet for cooking the spinach and paneer together.
  • Blender - A blender or mixer to blend the blanched spinach into a smooth puree.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for chopping the onions, tomatoes, and green chili.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board to provide a stable surface for chopping vegetables.
  • Spatula - A spatula or wooden spoon for stirring and mixing the ingredients while cooking.
  • Ice and Water - Ice cubes and water for the ice bath to cool down the blanched spinach quickly.
  • Measuring Spoons - Measuring spoons for accurately measuring the spices.
  • Serve ware - Plates or bowls for serving the hot Palak Paneer.
  • Garnish - Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing the dish (optional).

Origin stories

Palak Paneer, a heart-warming dish that has made its mark in Indian kitchens, traces its roots back to the state of Punjab in North India. This traditional delicacy has been passed down through generations and holds a special place in Indian cuisine. The dish beautifully marries the nutritional bounty of spinach (palak) and the soft, mellow paneer (cottage cheese), a staple dairy product in India. Interestingly, paneer itself was introduced to India by the Portuguese and quickly became an integral part of the Indian culinary landscape. As for spinach, it was already widely grown and consumed in India, known for its cooling properties and health benefits. The fusion of these two ingredients resulted in the creation of Palak Paneer, a dish that is now not just confined to Punjab, but relished all over India and beyond. It's a testament to the culinary inventiveness of Indian cooks who turned simple, everyday ingredients into a vibrant, flavorful dish that is loved across the globe.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.