Indian Palak Paneer Recipe - Paneer with Cottage Cheese

Indian Spinach Paneer Recipe An amazing dish, known for its delicious combination of creamy paneer (Indian cottage cheese) and nutritious spinach, it is a staple in every Indian household. Loved for its comforting, hot, and subtly spicy flavors, it’s a dish that’s easy to cook and a testament to India’s rich culinary heritage. In this post, I will share how to make a simple and healthy palak paneer (spinach in Hindi) dish.

Ingredients

Fresh spinach – 500 grams
Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) – 200 grams
Cumin seeds – 1 teaspoon
Turmeric powder – 1/2 teaspoon
Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
Salt – to taste
Oil – 2 tablespoons

Preparation of Palak Paneer

Whether you follow the traditional method or opt for a modern twist, preparing palak paneer is quite straightforward.

Blanch the spinach.

Start by cleaning and blanching fresh spinach leaves. The process involves boiling the spinach and then submerging it in cold water. This helps retain the spinach’s vibrant green color and nutrients.

Prepare the cheese.

Cut the cheese into small cubes and fry lightly until golden. This step is optional, and you can use raw cheese if you like.

Mix the spices.

Heat some oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Once they start to crackle, add turmeric and fry for a minute.

Blending

Blend the blanched spinach into a smooth paste.

Cook

Add the spinach paste to the pan, mix well, and cook for a few minutes. Add salt and garam masala. Mix well.

Add cheese.

Finally, add the cheese cubes to the spinach mixture and mix gently, making sure the cheese is well coated with the spinach mixture. Voila! Your spinach paneer is ready. Serve it hot with naan, roti, or rice for a satisfying meal.

Tips and Variations

Vegan Version
For a vegan version of palak paneer, substitute paneer with tofu and use coconut oil instead of regular oil.
Add a Creamy Texture
Some people like to add a spoonful of fresh cream to their palak paneer for extra richness and creaminess.
Use Different Greens
While spinach is traditionally used in palak paneer, you can also experiment with other greens like kale or mustard leaves for a unique flavor.

Conclusion – Indian Palak Paneer Recipe

Palak Paneer is not just a dish; it’s a palette of vibrant flavors that evoke a sense of nostalgia, comfort, and joy. This recipe brings to life this dish’s classic and beloved flavors and adds a few twists for a modern palate.

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this delicious dish. Remember to share your feedback and any unique variations you try!

Also Read:

How to Make Palak Paneer Paratha

Hyderabadi Veg Biryani Recipe

FAQs

What can I use instead of paneer?

Tofu is a great vegan substitute for paneer. It has a similar texture and absorbs the flavors of the spinach sauce well.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach if fresh is not available. However, fresh spinach is recommended for the best taste and nutrition.

How can I store leftover palak paneer?

You can store leftover palak paneer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

4. What does spinach blanched mean?

Blanching spinach involves briefly immersing it in boiling water, followed by rapid cooling in ice water. This process helps preserve color, texture, and nutrients, and can also be used to freeze spinach or use it in certain recipes.