DietGhar Palak Paneer: A Nutritious Spinach and Paneer Delight
A wholesome Indian recipe crafted for health-conscious eating: nutritious, delicious, and easy to make at home.
Palak Paneer is a beloved North Indian dish where soft paneer cubes are simmered in a vibrant, creamy spinach gravy. At DietGhar, we've reimagined this classic to be healthier without compromising on taste. Our version uses minimal oil, skips heavy cream, and packs in extra spinach for a nutrient-dense meal. The result is a luscious, green curry that's perfect for weight watchers, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a wholesome, satisfying dinner.
This recipe is quick, easy, and uses everyday ingredients. The spinach is blanched to retain its bright color and nutrients, then blended into a smooth puree. A simple tempering of cumin, onions, tomatoes, and spices forms the flavor base. We finish with a touch of low-fat yogurt or milk for creaminess, and a sprinkle of kasuri methi for that authentic aroma. Serve it with roti, brown rice, or quinoa for a balanced meal.
Ingredients
How to Make It
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt. Turn off the heat and add the chopped spinach leaves. Let them sit for 2 minutes.
Drain the spinach and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice-cold water to stop cooking and preserve the green color. After 2 minutes, drain well.
In a blender, combine the blanched spinach, green chili, ginger, and garlic. Blend to a smooth puree without adding water. Set aside.
Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the chopped tomato and cook until it softens and releases its juices, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well.
Add the spinach puree and 1/2 cup water. Mix and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the paneer cubes and garam masala. Simmer for 2 minutes. Do not overcook, or paneer will become rubbery.
Reduce heat to low. Add whisked yogurt and crushed kasuri methi. Stir gently and cook for 1 minute. Turn off heat.
Serve hot with roti, brown rice, or quinoa.
Nutrition per serving
* Approximate values per serving
Health Benefits
This DietGhar Palak Paneer is a nutritional powerhouse. Spinach provides iron, calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin K, supporting bone health and immunity. Paneer adds high-quality protein and calcium, essential for muscle repair and bone strength. The use of minimal oil and no cream makes it heart-friendly and suitable for weight management. The fiber from spinach and tomatoes aids digestion and keeps you full. This dish is also rich in antioxidants like lutein, which supports eye health.
Pro Tips
- →Blanching spinach and then shocking it in ice water helps retain its bright green color and nutrients.
- →Use a non-stick pan to reduce oil usage without compromising on taste.
- →For a creamier texture without cream, blend a few cashews with the spinach puree.
- →Add paneer at the end and cook briefly to keep it soft.
- →Adjust the green chili according to your spice preference.
Variations
- 1Tofu Palak: Replace paneer with firm tofu for a vegan version.
- 2Palak Chicken: Add cooked chicken cubes instead of paneer for a non-vegetarian twist.
- 3Palak Mushroom: Sauté mushrooms and add to the gravy for a earthy flavor.
- 4Palak Corn: Add boiled sweet corn kernels for a sweet and savory variation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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