Looking for a great and nutritious vegetarian dish? Attempt our palak paneer recipe instead! This meal is nutrient- and protein-rich since it is made with paneer, an Indian cottage cheese. Paneer is rich in calcium and protein while spinach is a fantastic source of iron. This recipe, which is excellent for lunch or dinner, is made from these two ingredients and is tasty and filling.
This recipe is straightforward to make and only requires a few quick steps. Simple oil-based sautéing of onions, garlic, spinach, and spices is followed by the addition of paneer. The end product is a savoury and creamy dish that will appeal to every guest at the table. Also, it's a wonderful way to include more greens in your diet!
Read More: Paneer Kolhapuri Recipe
What is Palak Paneer ?
Palak paneer is a popular vegetarian dish from North India that is made with spinach (palak) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese). The spinach is first cooked down and blended into a puree, which is then mixed with a creamy tomato-based sauce and chunks of paneer. Always shallow fry the paneer cubes before adding it to the dish as it will enhance the flavor.
Palak paneer is a nutritious dish that is rich in iron, calcium, and protein. This is a popular main course dish in Indian cuisine and is frequently eaten with naan, roti, or rice. It is typically served with naan, roti, or rice as a main course in Indian cuisine. This dish is very much popular among vegan and vegetarains and also its quite healthy as it contains lot of minerals and vitamins.
Palak Paneer Health Benefits:
Palak paneer, a popular Indian dish made from spinach and paneer cheese, has several health benefits:
· High in Nutrients: Spinach is rich in vitamins A, C, K, and minerals such as iron and calcium. Paneer cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamin D.
· Boosts Immunity: The combination of spinach and paneer provides a powerful dose of antioxidants that can help boost the immune system and protect against diseases.
· Good for Digestion: Spinach contains fiber and water, which can help prevent constipation and improve digestion. The probiotics in paneer can also help improve gut health.
· Helps Manage Blood Sugar: The fiber and low glycemic index of spinach can help regulate blood sugar levels. Paneer cheese is also low in carbohydrates and can help control blood sugar levels.
· Supports Weight Loss: Spinach is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help promote weight loss. Paneer cheese is also a good source of protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Overall, palak paneer can be a nutritious and healthy addition to a well-balanced diet, especially when prepared with healthy ingredients and consumed in moderation.
Ingredients for Palak Paneer Recipe:
- 500g spinach leaves, washed and chopped
- 250g paneer, cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3-4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1-2 green chilies, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- 1/2 tsp red chili powder
- 1/2 cup tomato puree
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt, to taste
- Oil, for cooking
Stepwise process to make tasty Palak Paneer at home:
· In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the chopped spinach leaves. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse the spinach under cold water. Once cooled, blend the spinach into a fine puree and set aside.
· Heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cubed paneer and fry until lightly golden. Remove the paneer from the pan and set aside.
· In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then, add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until the onions turn translucent.
· Add the chopped green chilies (if using) and sauté for another minute. Then, add the coriander powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder and mix well.
· Add the tomato puree and mix well. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomato puree is well combined with the spices.
· Add the spinach puree and mix well. Add salt to taste.
· Add the fried paneer to the pan and mix gently. Let the palak paneer cook for another 5-7 minutes on low heat.
· Add the heavy cream and mix well. Cook for another minute or two.
· Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.
Enjoy your delicious palak paneer!
Pro Tips:
Sure, here are some pro tips to make perfect palak paneer:
· Use fresh spinach: It is important to use fresh and tender spinach leaves to make palak paneer. Older spinach leaves can be tough and fibrous, which can result in a gritty texture.
· Blanche the spinach: Blanching the spinach before pureeing it helps to retain the vibrant green color of the palak paneer. It also helps to remove any dirt or impurities that may be present on the spinach leaves.
· Fry the paneer: Frying the paneer until it is slightly golden brown adds a crispy texture and enhances its flavor.
· Use whole spices: Using whole spices such as cumin seeds and coriander seeds instead of pre-ground spices adds depth and flavor to the dish.
· Cook the onions and spices well: It is important to cook the onions and spices until they are well combined and the onions turn translucent. This helps to create a flavorful base for the dish.
· Use heavy cream: Adding heavy cream at the end of the cooking process helps to give the palak paneer a creamy and smooth texture.
· Serve hot: Palak paneer is best served hot with naan, roti, or rice. Reheating the dish can result in a loss of flavor and texture.
FAQ's:
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach. However, be sure to thaw the spinach and squeeze out any excess water before blending it into a puree.
Can I substitute paneer with tofu?
Yes, you can substitute paneer with tofu if you prefer a vegan version of the dish. However, the texture and flavor of the dish will be slightly different.
Can I freeze palak paneer?
Yes, you can freeze palak paneer for up to 2-3 months. However, the texture of the paneer may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
Is palak paneer a healthy dish?
Yes, palak paneer is a healthy dish as it is packed with nutrients such as iron, calcium, and protein. However, it is also high in fat and calories due to the use of heavy cream and paneer, so it should be consumed in moderation.
Can I use other types of cheese instead of paneer?
Yes, you can use other types of cheese such as feta or halloumi instead of paneer. However, the flavor and texture of the dish will be different.
How spicy is palak paneer?
The level of spiciness in palak paneer can vary depending on the recipe and personal preference. Most recipes call for mild to medium spices, but you can adjust the level of heat by adding more or less chili powder or fresh green chilies.
Can I add other vegetables to palak paneer?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, or peas to palak paneer for added nutrition and flavor.
What is the best way to serve palak paneer?
Palak paneer is best served hot with naan, roti, or rice. It can also be served as a side dish with other Indian curries and dishes.
Can I make palak paneer without onion and garlic?
Yes, you can make palak paneer without onion and garlic. Simply skip the steps that call for these ingredients and adjust the spices and seasonings accordingly. You can also add ginger or other aromatic vegetables for added flavor.
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