indianDhaba-Style Palak Paneer
Velvety emerald spiced spinach puree simmered with aromatic garlic, ginger, and cumin, studded with pan-fried golden paneer cheese cubes.
Method
Read the full method before starting. Cooking times are guides; check texture and doneness as you cook.
Shows the steps one at a time, with a timer for each timed step.
Heavy skillet, Saucepan or pot, Sharp knife and board
Measure, cut, and arrange every ingredient in order of use. Read the full method and keep finishing ingredients separate.
- 01
Blanching
12 minutesHigh heatBring a large pot of water to a boil, blanch the spinach for 2 minutes, then move it to iced water. Drain and squeeze lightly.
Success cueThe spinach is wilted and bright green.
- 02
Puree
2 minutesBlend the spinach with 100 ml of the water until smooth.
Success cueThe puree is smooth and bright green.
- 03
Paneer
3 minutesMedium heatFry the paneer cubes in 10 g of the ghee over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes and set aside.
Success cueThe cubes have light golden spots.
- 04
Masala
12 minutesMedium heatHeat the rest of the ghee over medium heat, add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds for 30 seconds, then the chopped onion for 6 minutes. Add the garlic and ginger for 1 minute, then the chopped tomatoes, garam masala, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander and salt for 5 minutes.
Success cueThe oil separates at the edges of the pan.
- 05
Simmering
5 minutesLow heatAdd the spinach puree, the rest of the water, the paneer and the cream and simmer gently for 5 minutes.
Success cueIt bubbles gently and stays green.
Watch outLong cooking turns the spinach dull.
Cooking tips
Soaking fried paneer in warm salted water for 10 minutes keeps it pillowy soft inside the gravy.
- • Shocking blanched spinach in ice water stops cooking and preserves emerald color
Estimated nutrition per serving
Calculated estimate per serving from the listed quantities. Product choice and retained cooking fat affect the result; this is not a laboratory analysis.
- Calories
- ≈ 390
- Protein
- 19.7g
- Carbs
- 17.0g
- Fat
- 29.2g
Calculation source and assumptions
Values use USDA data and linked product labels, adjusted for edible quantities and base servings. Brands, ingredient varieties, and cooking methods can change the result.
Milk
Compound ingredients vary by product; check labels and possible cross-contact.
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