Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian dish made with soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) simmered in a smooth, creamy spinach sauce. It’s one of the most loved vegetarian curries in Indian cuisine, known for its vibrant green colour, mild spices, and comforting flavour.

This dish perfectly balances rich, creamy textures with the earthy freshness of spinach. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients spinach adds iron and vitamins, while paneer provides protein and calcium. Palak Paneer is wholesome, hearty, and pairs beautifully with naan, roti, or rice, making it a favourite in both homes and restaurants.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Palak Paneer

To make authentic Palak Paneer, you’ll need:

• Spinach (Palak): Fresh spinach leaves give the curry its rich green colour and earthy flavour.
• Paneer: Soft Indian cottage cheese that absorbs the flavours of the spinach sauce beautifully.
• Onion & Tomato: Form the base of the curry, adding sweetness and tang.
• Garlic & Ginger: Essential for depth and aroma.
• Spices: Common ones include cumin, turmeric, garam masala, coriander powder, and red chilli for warmth.

Optional Ingredients

• Cream or Yogurt: Adds creaminess and balances the spinach’s natural bitterness.
• Fenugreek Leaves (Kasuri Methi): Brings a subtle, smoky aroma found in restaurant-style versions.
• Ghee: For extra richness and a traditional Indian touch.

Preparation Steps

1. Blanch and Blend Spinach
   Start by washing the spinach leaves thoroughly. Blanch them in hot water for 1–2 minutes, then transfer to cold water to keep their bright green colour. Blend the spinach into a smooth puree and set aside.
2. Sauté Onion, Garlic, and Spices
   Heat a little oil or ghee in a pan. Add chopped onions, followed by garlic, ginger, and green chillies. Saute until golden brown, then mix in tomatoes and cook until soft. Add your spices cumin, garam masala, turmeric, and coriander powder and let the flavours combine.
3. Add Spinach Puree and Paneer
   Pour the spinach puree into the pan and stir well. Simmer for a few minutes, then gently add paneer cubes. Cook on low heat so the paneer absorbs the flavours without breaking.
4. Finish with Cream or Ghee
   To finish, add a splash of cream or a spoonful of ghee for richness and shine. Serve hot with roti, naan, or steamed rice for a wholesome Indian meal.

Tips for Perfect Palak Paneer

• Use Fresh Spinach: Always choose fresh spinach for the best flavour and colour. Overcooked or old leaves can make the curry taste bitter and dull.
• Don’t Overcook the Spinach: Cook just enough to soften it and preserve the bright green colour. Overcooking can cause it to lose both colour and nutrients.
• Lightly Fry the Paneer: Gently pan-fry the paneer cubes until golden on the edges. This gives them a firmer texture and prevents them from crumbling in the curry.
• Adjust Spice and Consistency: Balance the spices to your taste mild for a creamy, homely version or spicier for a restaurant-style twist. Add a little water or cream to achieve your preferred curry thickness.
  
  

Nutrition & Benefits

Palak Paneer is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The spinach adds a rich source of iron, fibre, and vitamins A and C, while paneer provides high-quality protein and calcium. Together, they make a wholesome and balanced meal that supports muscle strength, bone health, and energy.

This dish is especially great for vegetarian diets, offering a tasty way to get essential nutrients without meat. It’s light, nourishing, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, home-style Indian curry.

Enjoy the Irresistible Taste of  palak Paneer 

Palak Paneer is a timeless Indian classic that combines rich flavours with wholesome nutrition. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate this restaurant style dish right in your own kitchen.Give this recipe a try and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy paneer and spiced spinach! If you’ve made it, we’d love to hear your experience share your feedback or tips in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family.

Or If you love dishes like Chilli Paneer or Paneer Tikka, then you’ll definitely enjoy dining at The India  where authentic flavours, fresh ingredients, and a true taste of Indian cuisine come together in every bite!