Palak (Spinach) Paneer
Ingredients
- 1 10 oz packet of chopped frozen spinach or 4 cups of fresh finely chopped spinach
- 1/3 lb paneer
- 2 med tomato pureed
- 1 tsp chopped ginger
- 1 tsp corinader powder dhania
- 1/2 tsp turmeric haldi
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder lal mirch
- 1 tbs oil canola or vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp cumin seed jeera
- 1/8 tsp asafetida hing
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbs whole wheat flour
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tomato thinly sliced for garnishing
Instructions
- If using frozen spinach thaw and blend it just for a minute so spinach has a creamy texture but without becoming pasty.
- blend the tomatoes and ginger to make puree.
- Mix coriander, turmeric, and red chili with tomato puree and set aside.
- Mix whole-wheat flour with heavy cream and set aside.
- Cube the paneer in about half inch pieces and deep fry them on medium high heat just for few minutes so paneer become very light gold in color, take paneer out on paper towel so extra oil can be absorbed.
- Heat the oil in a saucepan. Test the heat by adding one cumin seed to the oil; if it cracks right away it is ready.
- Add hing and cumin seed. After cumin seeds crack, add the tomato puree mixture, and let it cook for a few minutes until the tomato puree is about half in volume.
- Add the spinach, and let it cook on low medium heat for about 10 minutes covered.
- Add heavy cream mixture and let this cook another four to five minutes.
- Add paneer and fold it gently with spinach and let it simmer for a 2-3 minutes. Pot should remain covered until the cooking is finished, otherwise the spinach will splatter.
- Transfer the spinach to a serving dish and spread the tomato slices over the top, and cover the dish so tomato slices get tender with the steam from the spinach.
Notes
How to Make Palak Paneer Masala by Manjula’s Kitchen
Paneer Palak, a beloved North Indian dish, epitomizes the perfect party recipe with its creamy spinach and delectable paneer in rich gravy. This is not merely a culmination but a convergence, as the paneer becomes an integral part of the spinach symphony.
- Blanch the Spinach: Bring a large pot of water (6 cups) to a boil. Add the spinach and cook for precisely one minute. Drain the water immediately and immerse the spinach in ice-cold water for two minutes. This step preserves the vibrant green color of the spinach.
- Create the Palak Paneer Base: Prepare a smooth puree by blending the blanched spinach with ginger and green chili. Aim for a creamy consistency, avoiding an overly thick paste.
- Soften the Paneer: Soak the cubed paneer in hot water (3 cups) for at least five minutes. This step softens the paneer, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the masala.
- Temper the Spices: Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add cumin seeds and asafetida. Once the cumin seeds crackle, introduce the chopped tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Incorporate the Spices: Add coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, salt, and a hint of sugar to the simmering tomato mixture. Stir well to combine and allow the spices to release their aroma.
- Cook the Spinach Puree: Reduce heat to low and add the prepared spinach puree. Simmer for 5-6 minutes without a lid to retain the vibrant green color of the spinach.
- Thicken the Gravy: For a thicker consistency and richer flavor, create a slurry by mixing flour with water. Gradually whisk the slurry into the simmering palak paneer mixture. Additionally, incorporate cream for a touch of silkiness.
- Incorporate the Paneer: Gently fold in the softened paneer cubes and simmer for another five minutes. This allows the paneer to absorb the flavors of the masala.
Serving: Enjoy your Palak Paneer hot with rice or naan bread.
Tips:
Spinach Selection: Use fresh, young spinach for the best color and flavor. Wash thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.
Blanching Technique: Don’t overcook the spinach during blanching (step 1). One minute is sufficient to preserve the vibrant green color and prevent mushiness.
Creamy Texture: For a richer and creamier gravy, add a dollop of heavy cream or cashew paste at the end.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of green chili or red chili powder to suit your preference.
Flavor Boost: Include a bay leaf or a green cardamom pod while tempering the spices for a deeper flavor profile.
Suggestions:
Serving: Pair your Palak Paneer with basmati rice, jeera rice, naan, or roti for a complete and satisfying meal.
Garnish: For a fresh touch, garnish your Palak Paneer with chopped cilantro or a dollop of plain yogurt.
Leftovers: Store leftover Palak Paneer in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Variations:
Vegetable Palak Paneer: Add chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers for extra color, texture, and nutrients.
Mushroom Palak Paneer: Substitute paneer with sliced mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Coconut Palak Paneer: Stir in a can of coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist.
Dry Palak Paneer: Reduce the amount of water or simmer for a longer duration to create a thicker, dryer gravy.
FAQs:
Can I substitute spinach with another green leafy vegetable?
Yes, you can use Swiss chard or kale, but the color and flavor will be slightly different.
Can I use paneer alternatives?
Yes, firm tofu can be used as a vegetarian substitute for paneer.
Is Palak Paneer healthy?
Yes, Palak Paneer is a healthy dish packed with protein from paneer, iron from spinach, and fiber from both ingredients.
How long does it take to make Palak Paneer?
The total preparation time is typically around 30-40 minutes.
Enjoy making and savoring this delicious and versatile Palak Paneer recipe!
If you liked this recipe. You must also try: Masala Bell Pepper Curry, Gulab Jamun, Pineapple Kulfi Ice Cream, Makhana Mutter Curry, and Ragda Puri Chaat