What is Palak Paneer Recipe?
A traditional Indian dish called palak paneer recipe was created in the nation’s northern regions. Fresh spinach leaves and cubes of tender paneer are combined in this delectable vegetarian dish to produce a bright and creamy green sauce. The meal is flavorful due to the combination of fragrant spices used in its seasoning.
The Origins of Palak Paneer Recipe
Palak Paneer has a lengthy, illustrious history. It is thought to have come from Punjab, a region well recognised for its love of hearty, savoury cuisine. Traditionally, the meal was made in the winter when fresh spinach was widely available. Palak Paneer became increasingly well-liked as time went on, and today it is enjoyed all over the world.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Palak Paneer Recipe
1. Making Creamier
For an extra creamy texture, you can blend some cashew nuts or blanched almonds along with the spinach.
2. Enhancing the Flavor
To enhance the flavor, you can add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) while cooking the gravy.
3. Adjusting the Spice Level
Increase the amount of green chilies or add a little amount of red chilli powder to the sauce for a hotter meal.
palak paneer recipe
- 300 grams of fresh spinach leaves
- 200 grams of Paneer (Indian cottage cheese)
- 2 medium-sized tomatoes
- 1 large onion
- 4 garlic cloves
- 1-inch piece of ginger
- 2 green chilies
- 1 teaspoon of garam masala
- 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon of coriander powder
- 2 tablespoons of fresh cream
- 2 tablespoons of cooking oil
- Salt to taste
Blanching the Spinach
Blanching is crucial if you want to keep the spinach's bright green color. Take these actions:
In a big saucepan of boiling water, sprinkle some salt on top. Spinach leaves should be added and blanched for 2 minutes. Spinach should be drained and placed in ice-cold water. Spinach should be drained one more before being pureed.
Preparing the Paneer
Make bite-sized cubes of paneer. The paneer cubes should only be lightly fried in the pan till golden brown. Heat has been removed; placed aside.
Making the Palak Paneer Gravy
In a skillet, cumin seeds are put to hot oil. Add green chilies, garlic, ginger, and onions that have been finely chopped. Sauté onions until they become transparent. Cook the tomatoes after being added until they are mushy and tender. Combine the garam masala, coriander, and turmeric powders in a mixing bowl. Spices should be cooked for a few seconds. Mix thoroughly after adding the spinach puree to the mixture. Allow the flavor's to mingle in the gravy by simmering it for a short while.Mix with some fresh cream for richness and add salt to taste.
Combining the Spinach and Paneer
Gently add the fried paneer cubes into the simmering spinach gravy. Stir carefully, ensuring the paneer is evenly coated with the green goodness. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the flavors of the gravy.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
With hot, freshly made basmati rice or Indian bread like naan or roti, palak paneer tastes delicious. To balance the flavours, you could also serve it with a side of cucumber raita.
Health Benefits of Palak Paneer
A number of health advantages come with palak paneer. While paneer offers calcium and protein, spinach is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamins. This recipe is a healthy vegetarian choice thanks to the addition of paneer and spinach.