Enjoy this flavorful and nourishing Palak Paneer Curry made with fresh spinach and homemade paneer. This vegetarian dish combines tender paneer cubes with a fragrant blend of spices, onions, tomatoes, and creamy spinach puree. Serve this creamy curry with hot naan or steamed rice for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients
- 2 bunches of fresh spinach
- 200g paneer
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
- 2 tomatoes, pureed
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Directions
- Wash the spinach thoroughly and blanch it in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and immediately transfer to ice-cold water to retain the vibrant green color. Drain again and blend into a smooth puree.
- Heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. Allow them to splutter.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for a minute.
- Add the tomato puree and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
- Add turmeric, red chili powder, coriander powder, garam masala, cumin powder, and salt. Mix well.
- Now, add the spinach puree and simmer for 5-7 minutes on medium heat.
- Cut the paneer into cubes and lightly fry them until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel.
- Gently stir in the fried paneer cubes into the spinach mixture.
- Add heavy cream and mix well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot with naan or rice.
Interesting Facts
Palak Paneer is a popular North Indian dish made with spinach and paneer (Indian cottage cheese).
Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins, and essential minerals.
Paneer is a good source of protein and calcium.
This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side with other Indian delicacies.