Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian dish where paneer (Indian cottage cheese) is cooked in a smooth spinach gravy. It’s a healthy and flavorful dish, beloved for its blend of nutritious greens and rich paneer.
Restaurant Style Palak Paneer Recipe
Palak Paneer, a beloved vegetarian dish from North India, combines the goodness of fresh spinach (palak) with cubes of soft and creamy paneer (Indian cottage cheese). This vibrant green curry is known for its wholesome flavors, aromatic spices, and the delightful contrast of the spinach puree with the mildness of the paneer. Palak Paneer is a favorite among vegetarians and a testament to the healthfulness and deliciousness of Indian cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Spinach Gravy:
- 500 g Spinach (Palak) washed and cleaned
- Water for blanching
- Ice Cubes for an ice bath
- 4 cloves Garlic chopped
- 1 inch piece Ginger chopped
- 2 Green Chilies chopped
- 1 medium Onion finely chopped
- 1 medium Tomato finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon Garam Masala
- 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Cream
- to taste Salt
- 2 tablespoons Oil
For the Paneer:
- 200 g Paneer cut into cubes
- Water to soak paneer
Instructions
- Blanch the Spinach: Boil water in a large pot. Add the spinach leaves and blanch for 2-3 minutes until they wilt. Immediately transfer the spinach to a bowl of ice water. This process helps retain a vibrant green color.
- Make Spinach Puree: Drain the spinach and blend it along with ginger, garlic, and green chilies to make a smooth puree. Set aside.
- Prepare the Paneer: Soak paneer cubes in warm water for 10-15 minutes. This step keeps the paneer soft.
- Cook the Gravy: In a pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Once they crackle, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft.
- Add Spinach Puree: Add the spinach puree to the pan. Mix well and cook for 5-7 minutes. If the gravy is too thick, add a little water to adjust the consistency.
- Add Paneer and Cream: Add the paneer cubes and gently mix. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Finally, stir in the fresh cream and garam masala.
- Serve: Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice. Garnish with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of garam masala, if desired.
Tips and Information
Conclusion:
Palak Paneer is a delightful showcase of the vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients found in Indian cuisine. Its velvety spinach puree paired with creamy paneer makes it a comforting and wholesome dish that continues to be cherished by vegetarians and lovers of Indian food around the world. Whether enjoyed at home, in Indian restaurants, or as part of special occasions and celebrations, Palak Paneer is a beloved and iconic vegetarian dish in Indian cuisine.Tips and Overview
- Retaining the Green Color: Blanching spinach and immediately transferring it to an ice bath helps in retaining its bright green color.
- Spinach Puree: Ensure the spinach puree is smooth for a creamy texture in the gravy.
- Paneer Preparation: Soaking paneer in warm water keeps it soft and succulent.
- Gravy Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the gravy to your preference. Some prefer a thicker gravy, while others like it slightly fluid.
- Serving Suggestions: Palak Paneer pairs well with flatbreads like roti or naan, as well as with basmati rice.