Palak Paneer (Indian Spinach Curry with Paneer Cheese)
Palak paneer is one of North India's most beloved vegetarian curries, pairing a vibrant spinach puree with cubes of mild, milky paneer cheese. Fresh spinach is blanched briefly and blended into a bright green sauce, combined with a base of sauteed onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes seasoned with garam masala. The paneer cubes are typically pan-seared first to form a light skin that holds their shape in the sauce while the interior stays soft and creamy. A swirl of heavy cream at the end rounds out the flavors, blending the earthy depth of spinach with warm spice and dairy richness.
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Instructions
- 1
Blanch spinach for 1 minute, cool in cold water, squeeze, and blend until smooth.
- 2
Heat oil in a pan, sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and ginger.
- 3
Add chopped tomato and garam masala, and cook down into a thick base.
- 4
Add spinach puree and simmer 5 minutes, then add paneer and simmer another 5 minutes.
- 5
Stir in cream, season with salt, and finish immediately.
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