Palak Paneer Curry Recipe (Spinach Paneer)

Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian curry made with soft paneer cubes simmered in a smooth spinach gravy flavored with mild spices. This dish is a delicious combination of health and taste, often paired with roti, naan, or rice. Its vibrant green color, creamy texture, and rich taste make it a family favorite and a popular restaurant choice.

Ingredients

For Blanching Spinach

• Fresh spinach (palak) – 250 g
• Water – 4 cups
• Ice water – 1 bowl

For the Gravy

• Paneer – 200 g (cubed)
• Oil or ghee – 2 tbsp
• Cumin seeds – ½ tsp
• Onion – 1 medium (chopped)
• Green chillies – 2
• Ginger – 1-inch piece (chopped)
• Garlic – 4 cloves (chopped)
• Tomato – 1 medium (chopped)
• Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp
• Coriander powder – 1 tsp
• Garam masala – ½ tsp
• Fresh cream – 2 tbsp
• Salt – to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Blanch the Spinach

   • Wash spinach thoroughly.
   • Boil water in a pot, add spinach leaves, and cook for 2–3 minutes.
   • Immediately transfer to ice-cold water to retain green color.
   • Drain and blend into a smooth puree.

2. Prepare the Gravy

   • Heat oil or ghee in a pan.
   • Add cumin seeds, let them splutter.
   • Add onion, green chillies, ginger, and garlic; saute until golden.
   • Add tomatoes and cook until soft.
   • Add turmeric, coriander powder, and salt; mix well.

3. Add Spinach Puree & Paneer

   • Add spinach puree to the pan, stir, and cook for 2–3 minutes.
   • Gently add paneer cubes and mix.
   • Simmer for 3–4 minutes.

4. Finish & Serve

   • Add garam masala and fresh cream; mix well.
   • Serve hot with roti, naan, or rice.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Iron & Folate – Spinach boosts hemoglobin levels.
• High Protein – Paneer provides essential amino acids.
• Good for Eyes & Skin – Spinach is high in Vitamin A.
• Bone Strength – Paneer is rich in calcium and phosphorus.

Tips

• Blanch spinach briefly to preserve its bright green color.
• Soak paneer in warm water for 10 minutes before adding to make it soft.
• For a richer flavor, cook with ghee instead of oil.
• You can add kasuri methi (dry fenugreek leaves) for extra aroma.

Variations

• Dhaba Style Palak Paneer – Add extra onions, tomatoes, and butter for a richer, spicier flavor.
• Jain Palak Paneer – Skip onion and garlic, use ginger and green chilli for flavor.
• Tofu Palak – Replace paneer with tofu for a vegan-friendly option.
• Palak Corn Curry – Add sweet corn along with paneer for a mild sweetness.
• Palak Paneer with Kasuri Methi – Add dry fenugreek leaves for a distinct aroma.