About the Dish
Palak Paneer is a beloved vegetarian dish that originates from the northern regions of India, though it has become popular all across the country. The name “Palak Paneer” comes from the two main ingredients: palak (spinach) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese). This dish is a perfect combination of vibrant, green spinach puree and soft, creamy paneer cubes cooked together with a blend of spices. The spinach is cooked until tender, then pureed into a smooth texture that forms the base of the dish, while the paneer adds a delicate, mild flavor that complements the richness of the curry. The spices, including cumin, garam masala, and ginger, give it a warm, aromatic depth, and a touch of cream or yogurt often enhances its smoothness and flavor.
Palak Paneer is cherished for its nutritious qualities, packed with iron, calcium, and protein, making it both a wholesome and satisfying dish. It’s not just tasty but also extremely versatile, often served with roti, naan, or rice in Indian households. Over the years, it has earned its place as a favorite in Indian restaurants and home kitchens alike, known for its hearty and comforting nature. Loved for its rich flavor and vibrant color, Palak Paneer continues to be a timeless classic that beautifully blends the earthiness of spinach with the richness of paneer, making it an essential part of Indian cuisine.
Sides to go with it
Palak Paneer pairs beautifully with sides like naan, roti, or rice, but garlic naan is a standout choice. The rich, creamy spinach curry and the soft, slightly crispy garlic naan complement each other perfectly. The garlic in the naan enhances the mild flavors of the dish, making each bite more flavorful. If you prefer convenience, store-bought garlic naan works wonderfully.
Recipe
Ingredients
Directions to make
For the Palak (Spinach)
- Fresh spinach leaves – 500 grams
- Water – for blanching spinach
- Salt – to taste
- Paneer – 200 grams (cubed)
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Tomato – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tablespoon
- Cumin seeds – 1/2 teaspoon
- Coriander powder – 1 teaspoon
- Garam masala – 1 teaspoon
- Red chili powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Turmeric powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) – 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Fresh cream – 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Salt – to taste
- Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Water – as needed to adjust consistency
- Oil – 1 tablespoon
- Garlic cloves – 6-7, finely chopped
- Dry red chili – 1-2
- Cumin seeds – 1/2 teaspoon
- Hing (asafoetida) – a pinch
Step 1 : Blanch and Puree the Spinach
- Blanch the spinach: Boil water in a pan, add a pinch of salt, and immerse the spinach leaves for about 2-3 minutes until they wilt. Remove them and immediately place them in cold water to preserve the color.
- Once cooled, drain the spinach and blend it into a smooth spinach puree. Set it aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
- Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes, coriander powder, red chili powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes soften and the oil starts to separate from the masala (about 5-6 minutes).
- Stir in the spinach puree and cook for a couple of minutes, adding water if the consistency is too thick.
- Add the paneer cubes and cook for another 5 minutes. If desired, you can add fresh cream to make the curry richer and creamier. Sprinkle kasuri methi for extra flavor (optional).
- In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil on low heat. Add cumin seeds, hing, and dry red chilies.
- Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown and releases a lovely aroma (this is the “lasooni” or garlic flavor).
- Pour the hot lasooni tadka (garlic tempering) over the cooked palak paneer.
- Gently stir, and allow the flavors to combine for 2 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
- Serve Palak Paneer Lasooni Tadka with naan, roti, or steamed rice for a delicious and hearty meal.
