Get ready to indulge in the creamy, dreamy flavors of Palak Paneer, a beloved North Indian dish that's both nutritious and delicious! As Sunita Devi, your friendly Rajasthani/Indian kitchen matriarch, I'm excited to share with you my secrets for making this wholesome spinach and paneer curry at home. Traditional Palak Paneer recipes often rely on refined sunflower oil, excessive butter, and store-bought paneer. But not today, beta! We'll be using fresh spinach, homemade paneer (or store-bought organic paneer), and a blend of aromatic spices to create a healthier, tastier version. Say goodbye to preservatives and artificial flavor enhancers, and hello to a nutrient-packed meal that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly and remove the stems. Chop the leaves into small pieces.
Heat 1 tablespoon of water in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, and green chili. Saute until the onion is translucent.
Add the chopped spinach leaves to the pan and saute until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Allow the mixture to cool, then blend into a smooth puree using a blender or food processor.
If using homemade paneer, follow your preferred recipe to make 200g of paneer. Cube it into small pieces.
If using store-bought paneer, cube it into small pieces and set aside.
Heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or butter in a pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle.
Add the coriander powder, garam masala powder, and turmeric powder. Saute for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Pour in the spinach puree and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Add the cubed paneer and stir gently to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the paneer is well coated with the spinach sauce.
Stir in the heavy cream or low-fat milk and adjust the seasoning with salt to taste.