Palak Paneer Recipe

Ingredients:

• 250g paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
• 250g fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee
• Fresh cream for garnishing (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. Add chopped onions and green chilies. Saute until the onions turn golden brown.
3. Add ginger-garlic paste and saute for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add chopped tomatoes, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the tomatoes are soft and oil starts to separate from the masala.
5. Add chopped spinach leaves to the pan. Stir well and cook until the spinach wilts down completely.
6. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool down a bit.
7. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth to make a thick spinach puree.
8. Return the pureed spinach mixture to the pan. Add garam masala and mix well. Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed.
9. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Add paneer cubes and gently stir to coat the paneer with the spinach gravy.
10. Cook for 5-7 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to blend together.
11. Taste and adjust salt and spices if needed.
12. Garnish with a swirl of fresh cream (if using) and serve hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice.

This Palak Paneer recipe captures the rich flavors of spinach and paneer, making it a popular and comforting dish in Indian cuisine.