Palak paneer
Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian dish made with paneer cubes simmered in a creamy spinach (palak) gravy, seasoned with aromatic spices.
Ingredients
For the Spinach Puree:
- 250 grams fresh spinach leaves palak
- 1 green chili
- 1- inch piece of ginger
- 2 cloves garlic
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- 1 bay leaf
- 1- inch cinnamon stick
- 2-3 cloves
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes pureed
- 2 teaspoons ginger-garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- 200 grams paneer cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup fresh cream or 2 tablespoons yogurt optional
- Salt to taste
- Fresh lemon juice optional
- Fresh coriander leaves chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Spinach Puree:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the spinach leaves and blanch for 2-3 minutes until they are wilted.
- Remove the spinach leaves and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice-cold water to stop the cooking process and retain the green color.
- Drain the spinach and blend it with the green chili, ginger, and garlic to make a smooth puree. Set aside.
Prepare the Gravy:
- Heat oil or ghee in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and cloves. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant.
- Add finely chopped onions and cook until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until the raw smell disappears.
- Add tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate from the masala.
- Add turmeric powder, red chili powder, and coriander powder. Mix well and cook for a minute.
- Add the spinach puree and mix well. Cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Add salt and garam masala. Mix well.
- Add the paneer cubes and gently stir to coat them with the gravy. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- If using, add fresh cream or yogurt and mix well. Cook for another minute.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Serve hot with naan, roti, or steamed rice.
- Enjoy your Palak Paneer!
