Deliciously Creamy Palak Paneer Recipe for a Cozy Dinner

Deliciously Creamy Palak Paneer Recipe for a Cozy Dinner

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Are you craving a comforting, creamy dish for dinner that’s both delectable and nutritious? Look no further than this exquisite creamy Palak Paneer recipe—a classic Indian delight that perfectly combines the earthy flavors of spinach with the rich creaminess of paneer. This dish is not only packed with flavor but is also a splendid way to incorporate more greens into your diet.

Deliciously Creamy Palak Paneer Recipe for a Cozy Dinner

Ingredients

To create this sumptuous dish, gather the following ingredients:

  • 500 grams of fresh spinach leaves
  • 200 grams of paneer, cubed
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium tomatoes, pureed
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 2 green chilies, slit
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon garam masala
  • 1 tablespoon coriander powder
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • ½ teaspoon red chili powder
  • ¼ cup fresh cream
  • 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Water, as needed

Preparation

  1. Blanching the Spinach

    Start by thoroughly washing the spinach leaves to remove any dirt or impurities. Boil a pot of water and add a pinch of salt. Immerse the spinach leaves into the boiling water and blanch for 2-3 minutes. Prepare a bowl of ice-cold water and transfer the blanched spinach immediately into it. This process helps retain the vibrant green color of the leaves. Once cooled, drain the water and puree the spinach to a smooth consistency using a blender. Set aside for later use.

  2. Sautéing the Paneer

    While the spinach is cooling, heat a tablespoon of ghee or oil in a pan over medium flame. Add the paneer cubes and lightly sauté them until they achieve a golden-brown crust. This step enriches the paneer with a delicious texture, preventing it from crumbling in the curry. Remove the sautéed paneer from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

  3. Cooking the Masala

    In the same pan, add another tablespoon of ghee or oil. Once the oil is hot, add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Immediately add the chopped onions and cook till they turn translucent. Introduce the ginger-garlic paste and sauté until the raw smell dissipates. Following this, mix in the pureed tomatoes and green chilies. Cook the mixture for 6-7 minutes until the oil begins to separate from the masala.

  4. Spicing it Up

    Once the masala cooks to perfection, sprinkle in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Stir the mixture well, allowing the spices to blend seamlessly with the masala. This process ensures the dish is imbued with a depth of flavor that is both harmonious and tantalizing.

  5. Simmering the Curry

    Incorporate the spinach puree into the pan, mixing thoroughly to integrate the masala and spinach. If the mixture is too thick, adjust the consistency by adding a little water. Season with salt as per taste. Allow the curry to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t overcook, which would otherwise dull the vibrant green color of the spinach.

  6. Final Touches: Adding Cream and Paneer

    Reduce the heat to low and gently fold in the fresh cream. This step elevates the dish, adding richness and a silken texture to the curry. Gently add the sautéed paneer cubes and garam masala, stirring softly to ensure the paneer is well coated with the spinach mixture. Let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

For the ultimate dining experience, serve the creamy Palak Paneer hot, garnished with a drizzle of fresh cream or a swirl of ghee. Pair it with a soft, buttery naan, fluffy jeera rice, or even whole wheat parathas for a wholesome, fulfilling meal. A side of crunchy papad and a simple cucumber salad would make perfect accompaniments, adding contrasting textures and freshness to your meal. Enjoy this delightful creation that’s not only a feast for the palate but also a visual treat with its lush green hue and inviting aroma.

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