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Palak Paneer, a classic North Indian dish, combines the vibrant flavors of spinach (palak) and Indian cottage cheese (paneer) into a wholesome and nutritious delight. This iconic vegetarian dish not only captivates the senses with its vibrant green hue but also entices with its rich and creamy texture. Join me on a culinary expedition as we uncover the secrets to crafting an authentic Palak Paneer that will transport you to the heart of India's culinary landscape.
Ingredients:
- 300g fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped
- 200g paneer, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons ghee or butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Preparing the Spinach Puree:
1. Blanch the chopped spinach leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
2. Drain the spinach and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process and retain its vibrant green color.
3. Once cooled, drain the spinach again and transfer it to a blender or food processor.
4. Blend the spinach into a smooth puree without adding any water. Set aside.
Preparing the Paneer:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the paneer cubes and fry them until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
ALSO READ: CHICKEN MANCHURIAN [RECIPE BY TRAVELLERCOOK]
Making the Palak Paneer:
1. In the same pan, heat the remaining ghee or butter over medium heat.
2. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
3. Add the chopped onions and green chilies, and sauté until the onions turn golden brown.
4. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they soften and break down, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Add the ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
7. Pour in the spinach puree and mix until well combined with the spice mixture.
8. Add the fried paneer cubes to the spinach mixture and gently stir to coat the paneer with the sauce.
9. If using, pour in the heavy cream and stir until incorporated. Adjust the consistency with water if necessary.
10. Simmer the Palak Paneer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
11. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Finishing Touches:
1. Garnish the Palak Paneer with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.
2. Serve hot with naan bread, roti, or steamed rice for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Congratulations! You've now got yourself an Authentic Palak Paneer, a quintessential dish that embodies the essence of Indian vegetarian cuisine. With its vibrant flavors, creamy texture, and nutritional benefits, Palak Paneer is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal at home or shared with loved ones at a festive gathering, this iconic dish promises to delight palates and evoke the rich culinary heritage of India. So go ahead, indulge in the goodness of Palak Paneer and savor the magic of Indian flavors!