Palak Paneer is one of the most beloved dishes in Indian cuisine. Combining fresh spinach (palak) with soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese), this recipe delivers a creamy, flavorful curry that’s both wholesome and satisfying. Popular in homes and restaurants across India, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, it’s a go-to dish for anyone craving authentic yet approachable Indian flavors.
If you’re looking for a homemade version that’s quick, delicious, and easy to follow, this guide will walk you through step-by-step instructions, practical tips, and tasty variations.
Why You’ll Love Palak Paneer
Nutritious & Balanced: Packed with protein from paneer and iron-rich spinach.
Restaurant-Style at Home: Achieve creamy flavors without complicated steps.
Versatile: Perfect with naan, roti, or rice.
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Serves 4:
250 g paneer, cut into cubes
4 cups fresh spinach leaves (or 2 cups frozen spinach)
2 tbsp oil or ghee
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, grated
2 green chilies (optional, adjust to taste)
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp garam masala
½ tsp turmeric powder
1 tsp coriander powder
½ tsp red chili powder
½ cup cream or cashew paste (for creaminess)
Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Wash spinach thoroughly and blanch in boiling water for 2 minutes.
Drain and immediately transfer to ice water to retain the vibrant green color.
Blend spinach into a smooth puree.
Step 2: Cook the Base
Heat oil or ghee in a pan.
Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add onion, garlic, ginger, and chilies. Sauté until golden.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes & Spices
Stir in tomatoes and cook until soft.
Add turmeric, coriander powder, red chili powder, and salt.
Cook until oil separates from the masala.
Step 4: Add Spinach Puree
Mix the spinach puree into the masala.
Simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Step 5: Add Paneer & Cream
Gently add paneer cubes.
Stir in cream or cashew paste for richness.
Sprinkle garam masala and cook for 3–4 minutes.
Tips for the Best Palak Paneer
Use Fresh Spinach: It gives a vibrant color and fresh taste.
Soften Paneer: Soak store-bought paneer cubes in warm water for 10 minutes.
Balance Spices: Don’t overpower spinach’s natural flavor.
For Vegan Version: Swap paneer with tofu and cream with coconut milk or cashew cream.
Variations to Try 🍴
Palak Paneer with Corn: Add sweet corn kernels for extra texture.
Spicy Palak Paneer: Increase green chilies for a bolder flavor.
Palak Paneer with Yogurt: Stir in thick yogurt instead of cream for a tangy twist.
One-Pot Palak Paneer: Cook spinach directly with masala for faster prep.
What to Serve with Palak Paneer
Breads: Naan, roti, paratha, or chapati.
Rice: Steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, or pulao.
Accompaniments: Pickles, papad, or a cooling cucumber raita.
Why This Recipe Works
This quick & delicious Palak Paneer recipe is:
Easy for beginners yet authentic in taste.
Flexible for weeknights or festive dinners.
Nutritious, creamy, and comforting all at once.
Conclusion
Palak Paneer is the perfect way to enjoy the goodness of spinach and the creaminess of paneer in a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. By following these simple steps, you can make a quick & delicious Palak Paneer recipe you must try at home—no restaurant needed!
Serve it hot with naan or rice, and watch it become a family favorite. 🥬✨