Learn how to cook restaurant-style Palak Paneer at home – creamy, flavorful spinach curry with soft paneer cubes. Perfect with naan or rice!
Try this easy Palak Paneer Recipe (Indian Spinach Paneer) – a creamy, delicious North Indian curry made with pureed spinach and paneer cubes. Ready in just 30 minutes!
🍛 Palak Paneer Recipe
🕒 Total Time: 30 mins | 🍴 Servings: 4
🧂 Ingredients
| Main Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spinach leaves (palak) | 4 cups (washed) |
| Paneer cubes | 200–250 grams |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Tomato (chopped) | 1 large |
| Garlic cloves | 4–5 |
| Ginger | 1-inch piece |
| Green chilies | 1–2 |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric powder | ½ tsp |
| Red chili powder | ½ tsp |
| Garam masala | ½ tsp |
| Fresh cream (optional) | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Oil or ghee | 2 tbsp |
👣 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Blanch and Blend Spinach
- Boil 3 cups water and add spinach. Blanch for 1–2 minutes.
- Immediately transfer to cold water.
- Blend with green chilies, ginger, and garlic to make a smooth puree.
Step 2: Sauté Base Masala
- Heat oil/ghee in a pan. Add cumin seeds.
- Add chopped onion and sauté till golden brown.
- Add chopped tomato. Cook until soft and mushy.
Step 3: Cook the Spinach Gravy
- Add turmeric, red chili powder, salt, and garam masala.
- Pour in the spinach puree. Mix well.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes on medium heat until the raw smell disappears.
Step 4: Add Paneer
- Add paneer cubes directly or lightly pan-fried paneer.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Add cream if using.
- Mix and switch off the heat.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve hot with roti, naan, jeera rice, or plain basmati rice.
❓ Top 15 FAQs – Palak Paneer Recipe
- Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw and drain it before blending. - How to keep the green color intact?
Blanch spinach briefly and add to cold water immediately. - Can I substitute paneer with tofu?
Yes, tofu works well for a vegan option. - Can I skip cream?
Yes, it’s optional. Use cashew paste for richness if desired. - What to serve with palak paneer?
It pairs well with naan, paratha, or rice. - Why does palak paneer taste bitter sometimes?
Overcooked spinach or mature leaves can cause bitterness. - Can I store palak paneer?
Yes, refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently. - Is this recipe good for kids?
Yes, it’s nutritious and mildly spiced. Just reduce chili. - How to make it vegan?
Replace paneer with tofu and cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. - Should I fry paneer first?
Optional. Frying adds texture, but soft paneer works great too. - Can I add kasuri methi?
Yes, add 1 tsp crushed kasuri methi at the end for aroma. - How to make it restaurant-style?
Use cream, butter, and blend the gravy smooth for a rich finish. - Can I use a hand blender?
Yes, but for smoother puree, a regular mixer is better. - Is Palak Paneer healthy?
Yes! It’s rich in iron, calcium, and protein. - What oil is best?
Use ghee or neutral oils like sunflower or canola.
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