Palak Paneer Recipe

 Palak Paneer is a popular Indian dish made with spinach (palak) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese). It's a nutritious and flavorful dish that is loved by many. Here's a simple recipe for Palak Paneer:

Ingredients:

250 grams paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes

500 grams fresh spinach (palak), washed and chopped

1 large onion, finely chopped

2 tomatoes, finely chopped

2-3 green chilies, slit lengthwise

1-inch ginger, grated or finely chopped

4-5 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 teaspoon garam masala

1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder

1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon coriander powder

Salt to taste

2 tablespoons oil or ghee (clarified butter)

2 tablespoons cream or yogurt (optional)

Water as needed

Instructions:

Blanch the Spinach:

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

Add the chopped spinach and blanch it for 2-3 minutes.

Drain the spinach and quickly immerse it in a bowl of ice water to preserve its vibrant green color.

After cooling, drain the spinach again and puree it until smooth using a blender or food processor. Then set it aside.

Prepare the Paneer:

Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.

Add the paneer cubes and fry them until they turn golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Make the Palak Paneer:

In the same pan, heat the remaining oil or ghee.

Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.

Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.

Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Sauté for another 2 minutes.

Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft and mushy.

Now, add the turmeric powder, red chili powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Add the spinach puree and mix everything well. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

If the mixture is too thick, you can add some water to adjust the consistency.

Add the fried paneer cubes and garam masala. Stir gently to combine.

Optional: Add cream or yogurt for a richer taste and creamier texture.

Let the Palak Paneer simmer for another 5-7 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to blend together.

Serve:

Transfer the Palak Paneer to a serving dish.

Garnish with a drizzle of cream, if desired.

Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice.

Enjoy your homemade Palak Paneer!