Indian · serves 2

Palak Paneer

Looks like effort, isn't. The blender does the work.

35 min Some work Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 500g spinach
  • 250g paneer, cubed
  • 1 onion
  • 2 green chillies
  • 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 3 tbsp cream or milk
  • 2 tbsp ghee

Method

  1. Blanch spinach 2 minutes in boiling water, then straight into cold water. Keeps it green.
  2. Blend with green chillies into a coarse puree.
  3. Cumin in ghee, then onion till golden, then ginger-garlic.
  4. Add the puree, salt, garam masala. Simmer 6-8 minutes — don't overcook or the colour dulls.
  5. Fold in paneer, cream, and take it off in 2 minutes.

Questions people ask about Palak Paneer

How long does Palak Paneer take?

About 35 minutes from starting to sitting down, and it is a bit of work. Most of that is active, so read the method through before you start rather than chopping as you go.

What is the one thing to get right in Palak Paneer?

Add the puree, salt, garam masala. Simmer 6-8 minutes — don't overcook or the colour dulls.

What can I use instead of spinach in Palak Paneer?

Use any soft green: methi, amaranth, or chard. All release water, so cook it off before proceeding.

Can I make Palak Paneer ahead of time?

You can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. It keeps two days in the fridge, though it is best on the day.

Is Palak Paneer vegetarian?

Yes, it is vegetarian. It is not vegan as written because it contains dairy; swap the dairy for a plant alternative and the rest of the method is unchanged.

What do you serve with Palak Paneer?

Roti or plain rice, with something sharp on the side: curd, pickle or sliced onion. It serves two as written. Double everything to feed four, but use a wider pan so the food still browns rather than steams.

Don't know what to cook? Let it decide →

Read more on the technique

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