Palak Paneer Recipe (Spinach Cheese)
As I stepped into my kitchen, the comforting aroma of spices swirling in the air reminded me of my grandmother’s home. I could almost hear her soft laughter as she stirred the pot of vibrant green goodness—Palak Paneer, a delightful marriage of spinach and cheese. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a memory, a hug in a bowl, and a simple dinner that can turn a regular evening into a feast of flavors. Join me as I guide you through this Palak Paneer Recipe (Spinach Cheese) that is sure to steal the show at any table.
Why Make This Recipe
Palak Paneer is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this comforting recipe:
- Quick Prep: With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of your time, you can whip up a delicious homemade dish that feels like a labor of love.
- Cozy Flavors: The rich and creamy texture of paneer, mixed with the earthy notes of spinach, creates a symphony of comfort in every bite.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is versatile and appeals to wonderfully diverse palates.
- Versatile Ingredients: It uses readily available ingredients (you probably already have in your pantry), and you can even experiment with substitutions.
- Easy Meal Prep: Leftovers can be stored easily, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Fresh Spinach (2 cups, packed): The star of the show; choose vibrant, fresh leaves for the best flavor and nutrition.
- Paneer (200g): A firm Indian cheese; if you can’t find paneer, tofu works as a tasty vegan alternative.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth. For a milder flavor, use shallots.
- Garlic (2-3 cloves): Essential for that aromatic base; you can also use garlic powder in a pinch.
- Ginger (1-inch piece, grated): Brightens up the dish with its warm spice.
- Tomato (1 medium): Adds a touch of acidity; opt for canned tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available.
- Green Chili (1, slit): For a hint of heat; omit for a milder version.
- Cumin Seeds (1 tsp): Infuses warm, earthy undertones.
- Garam Masala (1 tsp): A blend of spices that brings everything together beautifully.
- Cream (2 tbsp): Optional, for a richer texture; you can also use yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter option.
- Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
This delicious meal is a quick and easy option for a satisfying dinner or a weekend feast!
How to Make Palak Paneer Recipe (Spinach Cheese)
- Blanch the Spinach: In a pot of boiling water, blanch the spinach leaves for 2-3 minutes until bright green and soft. Drain and rinse under cold water to preserve the vibrant color.
- Blend the Spinach: In a blender, puree the blanched spinach with a little water to create a smooth paste. Set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pan, heat some oil over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, and once they start to sizzle, throw in the chopped onions. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. The savory scent will make your mouth water.
- Add Ginger, Garlic, and Tomato: Stir in the grated ginger, minced garlic, and chopped tomato. Cook until the tomatoes soften and blend into the mixture, usually around 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate the Spinach: Pour in the spinach puree, and mix well. Let the flavors mingle on low heat for about 5 minutes. This is where your kitchen will fill with an irresistible, earthy aroma.
- Add Paneer and Spices: Gently fold in the paneer cubes, green chili, garam masala, and salt. Simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the paneer to absorb the lovely spinach flavors.
- Finish with Cream: For a touch of richness, stir in the cream. Let it simmer for a couple more minutes.
- Serve Warm: Your Palak Paneer is ready to be served! Enjoy it warm with naan or rice.
Tips and Creative Variations
- Add Nuts: For an interesting texture, throw in some crushed cashews or almonds while blending the spinach.
- Spice it Up: If you love a kick, add more green chilies or a pinch of red chili powder.
- Vegan Twist: Swap paneer with tofu and use coconut cream to keep it dairy-free.
- Herb Infusion: Add a handful of fresh cilantro or mint leaves during the blending step for added freshness.
Serving Ideas
Imagine a cozy evening gathered around a table filled with love. Serve your Palak Paneer alongside hot naan, fragrant basmati rice, and a side of raita to cool the spices. Pair it with a chilled mango lassi or a refreshing cucumber salad to round off the meal. It’s perfect for family gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner that warms the heart and soul.
Storing and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to restore the creamy texture.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Spinach: The flavor of fresh spinach makes all the difference—frozen spinach can work in a pinch, but you’ll lose that vibrant taste.
- Don’t Skip Blanching: This step brightens the spinach color and helps retain nutrients.
- Customize Thickness: Adjust the thickness of the gravy by adding more or less water while blending.
- Taste as You Go: Always adjust spices to your preference; cooking is all about personalizing your dish.
- Make Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time for a family meal.
FAQs
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Can I freeze this recipe? Yes, Palak Paneer freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
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What’s the best substitute for paneer? Tofu, especially firm tofu, is an excellent substitute if you’re looking for a vegan option.
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How can I make it spicier? Increase the number of green chilies or add chili powder according to your heat preference.
Conclusion
With its lush green color and comforting flavors, this Palak Paneer Recipe (Spinach Cheese) is much more than a meal; it’s a tradition filled with warmth and love. It’s an easy meal for busy weeknights yet special enough for festive occasions. I hope you create beautiful memories around the table with this dish—after all, the best meals are those we share with family and friends. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the joy of cooking unfold. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Contents
Palak Paneer
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach, packed Choose vibrant, fresh leaves for best flavor and nutrition.
- 200 g Paneer Firm Indian cheese; tofu can be used as a vegan alternative.
- 1 medium Onion, chopped Adds sweetness and depth. Shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
- 2-3 cloves Garlic Essential for that aromatic base; can use garlic powder in a pinch.
- 1 inch piece Ginger, grated Brightens up the dish.
- 1 medium Tomato, chopped Opt for canned tomatoes if fresh are unavailable.
- 1 Green Chili, slit For a hint of heat; omit for milder version.
- 1 tsp Cumin Seeds Infuses warm, earthy undertones.
- 1 tsp Garam Masala A blend of spices that brings everything together.
- 2 tbsp Cream Optional; can use yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter option.
- Salt, to taste Enhances all the flavors.
Instructions
Preparation
- Blanch the Spinach: In a pot of boiling water, blanch the spinach leaves for 2-3 minutes until bright green and soft. Drain and rinse under cold water.
- Blend the Spinach: Puree the blanched spinach with a little water to create a smooth paste. Set aside.
Cooking
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds, and once they start to sizzle, add the chopped onions. Cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Ginger, Garlic, and Tomato: Stir in the grated ginger, minced garlic, and chopped tomato. Cook until the tomatoes soften, around 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate the Spinach: Pour in the spinach puree, and mix well. Let simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes.
- Add Paneer and Spices: Gently fold in the paneer cubes, green chili, garam masala, and salt. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the cream and let it simmer for a couple more minutes.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy your Palak Paneer warm with naan or rice.
Notes
Written by khadija — founder of Dailypan, sharing easy, cozy homemade recipes for every occasion.