Ultimate Spinach Delight: Paneer in Creamy Curry

Experience the ultimate spinach delight with this creamy curry featuring tender paneer in a luscious sauce. Fresh spinach leaves are cooked to perfection with aromatic spices, creating a dish that is both comforting and flavorful. This Palak Paneer recipe is sure to become a favorite for its rich texture and vibrant taste.

Ultimate Spinach Delight: Paneer in Creamy Curry
  • Prep Time
    20 mins
  • Cook Time
    44 mins
  • Total Time
    1 hrs 4 mins

Ingredients

  • A quarter cup of vegetable oil
  • One chopped onion
  • A tablespoon of minced garlic
  • Three whole cloves
  • Half a teaspoon of salt
  • Half a teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • A quarter teaspoon of garlic powder
  • A quarter teaspoon of cumin seeds
  • A quarter teaspoon of ground cinnamon
  • A quarter teaspoon of red chile powder
  • A quarter teaspoon of onion powder
  • A quarter teaspoon of ground ginger
  • Half a cup of water
  • Half a teaspoon of tomato paste
  • Two packages of baby spinach (5 ounces each)
  • One and a half cups of cubed paneer (Indian cheese curd)
  • A quarter cup of heavy whipping cream

Step 1

Begin by heating a generous amount of oil in a large pot on medium heat. Toss in finely chopped onions and minced garlic, allowing them to sizzle and caramelize for roughly 8 minutes until they turn a lovely golden hue. Lower the heat to medium-low and sprinkle in a blend of warm spices like cloves, salt, pepper, garlic powder, cumin seeds, cinnamon, red chile powder, onion powder, and ground ginger. Let the aromas mingle and intensify for about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 2

Next, introduce a mix of water and tomato paste into the pot, creating a fragrant base. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle boil before lowering the heat to a gentle simmer for approximately 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. Toss in fresh spinach leaves, covering the pot to coax them into a tender wilt over the course of 10 minutes. Uncover and let the liquid reduce until it thickens, and the oil starts to separate, taking around 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 3

Carefully transfer this vibrant spinach medley to a blender, ensuring it's cool enough to handle. Secure the lid with a kitchen towel and blitz until velvety smooth. Return the luscious green puree to the pot, folding in chunks of paneer cheese and a splash of heavy cream. Cover and let it gently simmer over medium heat until the paneer is heated through, approximately 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the flavors to harmonize beautifully.

Extra Tips & Suggestions

  1. 1. Utilize transparent airtight containers to store fresh spinach leaves, keeping them crisp and vibrant for longer periods.
  2. 2. For optimal freshness, wrap paneer in a damp cloth before storing it in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying out.