Palak Paneer | Spinach With Cottage Cheese

Palak Paneer – A Classic Indian Vegetarian Delight

Introduction

Palak Paneer is one of the most iconic and beloved vegetarian dishes in Indian cuisine. Made from creamy spinach and Indian cottage cheese, this North Indian delicacy is a staple in households and restaurants alike. Known for its rich taste and vibrant green color, the dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients.

The Cultural Significance of Palak Paneer

The spicy dish holds a special place in Indian food culture. It is a must-have during festive occasions, family gatherings, and traditional meals. Often served with naan, roti, or jeera rice, this dish bridges the gap between comfort food and a restaurant-style experience. Its popularity transcends regional cuisines and is cherished across India, especially in Punjab, where it is deeply rooted.

Nutritional Value

The dish is not just delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Spinach is rich in iron, calcium, vitamins A, C, and K, and antioxidants. Paneer, being a good source of protein and calcium, adds a creamy texture and balances the flavors. This dish is a great option for vegetarians looking to add essential nutrients to their diet.

Key Health Benefits:

• Boosts Immunity: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.
• Supports Bone Health: Thanks to the high calcium content in paneer.
• Improves Digestion: Spinach is a great source of fiber.
• Aids in Weight Management: Low in calories and high in nutrition.

Popular Variations

While the classic version is made with fresh spinach puree and lightly fried paneer cubes, there are several delicious variations across Indian kitchens:

• Dhaba Style : Richer and spicier, often cooked with more ghee and masalas.
• Restaurant Style : Creamier with a touch of cream or butter for a luxurious texture.
• Vegan : Uses tofu instead of paneer and coconut milk instead of cream for dairy-free preferences.
• Palak Paneer with Corn or Mushrooms: A twist that adds more texture and flavor layers.

Serving Suggestions

The dish pairs well with a variety of Indian breads and rice dishes. Some of the best accompaniments include:

• Tandoori Roti or Butter Naan
• Jeera Rice or Peas Pulao
• Lachha Paratha or Plain Basmati Rice

A side of fresh salad, pickles, and cooling raita complements the dish beautifully.

Palak Paneer in Indian Restaurants

Whether you dine at a high-end Indian restaurant or a local dhaba, the dish is almost always on the menu. It’s a favorite among both locals and international food lovers, thanks to its balanced flavor and wide appeal. In many Indian buffets abroad, it features as a go-to vegetarian entrée.

Palak Paneer | Spinach With Cottage Cheese

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Side Dish

Cuisine North Indian

Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 2 Bunches Spinach/Palak
• 200 g Cottage cheese/Paneer
• 6-8 Cloves Garlic
• 1 No. Onion(finely chopped)
• 3-4 Nos. Green chilies
• 3-4 Nos. Cloves/lavang
• 2-3” Pieces Cinnamon/Patta
• 4-6 Nos. Whole red chilies
• 1 Bay leaf Karuga Ela
• 2 tbsp Oil
• soda bi carb A pinch
• 1 Tsp sugar
• Salt As reqd

Instructions

 

• Boil water in a large pan and add some salt, sugar and soda-bicarbonate.
  
• Clean and wash the spinach/palak, retaining the good part of the stem. Blanch the spinach/palak in boiling water for 2-3 minutes.
  
• Drain the spinach/palak and refresh in cold water and keep aside to cool.
  
• Grind the spinach/palak in a mixer with green chilies and 4 garlic cloves. Keep this pureed mixture aside.
  
• Heat oil in pan and add the bay leaf, cloves and cinnamon/dalchini.
  
• Add the finely chopped onions and saute for 2-3 minutes till the onions turn translucent.
  
• Add the ground spinach/palak to the onions and cook on low flame for 3-4 minutes.
  
• Cut the cottage cheese/paneer into cubes.
  
• Add the cottage cheese/paneer pieces to the spinach/palak and mix well.
  
• For the tempering/ tadka:
  
• In a small skillet, heat 2 tbsp oil and fry 1 bay leaf, 2 cloves/lavang, 1 small cinnamon stick/dalchini and 4-5 whole red chilies. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and fry till golden brown.
  
• Transfer the spinach/palak and paneer into a serving dish and pour the tempering/tadka on top. Serve with paratha/roti.

Notes

You can visit this link Palak Cutlet. You can also visit this link Palak Paneer.

Keyword Palak Paneer, Spinach With Cottage Cheese

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