palak paneer recipe

Palak Paneer Recipe – Creamy Indian Spinach Curry with Paneer

Learn how to make authentic Palak Paneer at home! This healthy, creamy spinach curry with Indian cottage cheese is packed with flavor, iron, and protein. Perfect with naan or rice!

🥘 What is Palak Paneer?

Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian vegetarian dish made with fresh spinach (palak) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese) simmered in a mildly spiced, creamy gravy. It's popular in Indian households and restaurants, served with naan, roti, or basmati rice. This dish is not only delicious but also rich in iron, calcium, and protein.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Spinach Base:

• 250g fresh spinach (palak), washed and chopped
• 1 green chili
• 1-inch ginger
• 2 garlic cloves
• Water for blanching

For the Curry:

• 200g paneer, cubed
• 2 tbsp oil or ghee
• 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 medium tomato, finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1/2 tsp garam masala
• 1/2 tsp coriander powder
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp cream or 1/4 cup milk (optional for creaminess)

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🍳 How to Make Palak Paneer – Step-by-Step

Step 1: Blanch and Puree Spinach

• Boil water and blanch the chopped spinach for 2–3 minutes.
• Drain and immediately transfer to cold water to retain color.
• Blend with green chili, ginger, and garlic into a smooth puree.

Step 2: Cook the Base

• Heat oil or ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds.
• Add onions and sauté until golden.
• Add tomatoes, turmeric, coriander powder, and salt. Cook until soft.

Step 3: Add Spinach Puree

• Add the spinach puree and cook for 5–6 minutes on medium heat.
• Add garam masala and cream. Mix well.

Step 4: Add Paneer

• Add paneer cubes and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
• Adjust salt and add water if needed for consistency.

Step 5: Serve Hot

• Garnish with a swirl of cream or butter and fresh coriander.

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✅ Why You’ll Love This Palak Paneer Recipe

• 🌿 Vegetarian & gluten-free
• 💪 High in iron and protein
• 🍛 Rich, flavorful, and restaurant-style
• ⏱ Ready in under 30 minutes
• 🧒 Kid-friendly and healthy!

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve with naan, roti, or steamed basmati rice
• Add raita, papad, or a simple salad for a full Indian meal
• For a low-carb option, pair with cauliflower rice or quinoa

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📝 Pro Tips for Perfect Palak Paneer

• Don’t overcook spinach – blanching keeps it vibrant green.
• For extra richness, pan-fry paneer cubes before adding.
• Add a pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek) for restaurant-style aroma.
• To make it vegan, substitute paneer with tofu and cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.

📌 Try These Indian Recipes Next

• Butter Chicken – Creamy Tomato Chicken Curry
• Jeera Rice – Fragrant Cumin Rice
• Chana Masala – Spiced Chickpea Curry