Palak Paneer Recipe – Creamy Spinach Curry with Cottage Cheese
Palak Paneer Recipe
Palak Paneer Recipe is a beloved North Indian classic — cubes of paneer (Indian cottage cheese) simmered in a rich, velvety spinach sauce flavored with garlic, ginger, and aromatic spices.
“Palak” means spinach in Hindi, and “paneer” refers to the soft cheese used in countless Indian dishes. This dish is known for its gorgeous green color, creamy texture, and nourishing balance of protein and greens.
It’s one of those easy Indian curry recipes that looks restaurant-style but is totally doable at home.
🍃 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spinach (fresh or frozen) | 250 g (about 4 cups) | Washed and chopped |
| Paneer (cubed) | 200 g (7 oz) | Homemade or store-bought |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium | Adds sweetness |
| Tomato (pureed or chopped) | 1 large | For slight tang |
| Garlic cloves | 4–5 | Essential for flavor |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece | Freshly grated |
| Green chili | 1 (optional) | For mild heat |
| Cumin seeds | ½ tsp | For tempering |
| Garam masala | ½ tsp | Adds aroma |
| Turmeric powder | ¼ tsp | For color |
| Red chili powder | ¼ tsp | Optional |
| Cream (or milk) | 2 tbsp | To finish |
| Ghee or oil | 2 tbsp | For cooking |
| Salt | To taste | — |
| Water | As needed | — |
🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Blanch the Spinach
Bring water to a boil and add the spinach leaves.
Boil for 2 minutes until wilted.
Drain immediately and transfer to ice water (this preserves the green color).
Once cool, blend into a smooth puree and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat ghee or oil in a pan.
Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
Add chopped onion and sauté until golden brown.
Add garlic, ginger, and green chili, and cook for another minute.
Stir in the tomato and cook until the oil separates from the masala.
Step 3: Add Spices & Spinach
Add turmeric, red chili powder, and salt.
Pour in the spinach puree and mix well.
Simmer for 5 minutes on low heat.
Step 4: Add Paneer & Finish
Add the paneer cubes gently into the spinach gravy.
Stir lightly and cook for 3–4 minutes.
Sprinkle garam masala and drizzle cream on top.
Simmer for 2 more minutes, then turn off the heat.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve palak paneer hot with:
- Steamed basmati rice
- Roti, naan, or paratha
- A squeeze of lemon for brightness
💚 Optional: Add a swirl of cream or a pat of butter on top for a restaurant-style finish.
🧡 Tips for the Perfect Palak Paneer
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and color.
- Don’t overcook spinach — it can turn dark and bitter.
- Soak paneer in hot water for 5 minutes before adding; this keeps it soft.
- For a vegan version, substitute tofu for paneer and coconut milk for cream.
🌿 Nutritional Benefits
| Nutrient | Benefit |
|---|---|
| 🥬 Spinach | Rich in iron, folate & antioxidants |
| 🧀 Paneer | High in protein & calcium |
| 🧄 Garlic & Ginger | Support digestion & immunity |
This healthy palak paneer recipe is protein-rich, gluten-free, and loaded with vitamins — making it perfect for everyday meals.
FAQ
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes! Just thaw and drain before blending.
How can I make it creamier?
Add 2 tbsp fresh cream or ¼ cup cashew paste at the end.
Can I make it without onion or garlic?
Yes. Replace them with hing (asafoetida) and cook tomato directly in ghee for a Jain-style version.
What’s the difference between palak paneer and saag paneer?
Palak paneer uses only spinach, while saag paneer may include mustard greens and other leafy vegetables.
How long does it keep?
Store in the fridge up to 2 days. Reheat gently — avoid overcooking the paneer.
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