🥬 Palak Paneer Recipe | Restaurant-Style Indian Cottage Cheese in Spinach Gravy

Palak Paneer is one of the most loved and iconic dishes in Indian cuisine. This delicious and healthy curry features soft paneer cubes (Indian cottage cheese) immersed in a vibrant, mildly spiced spinach (palak) gravy. Rich in iron, protein, and flavor, it’s a staple in both North Indian homes and restaurant menus across the world.

You’ll learn  palak paneer that tastes just like your favorite restaurant-style palak paneer. This recipe is simple, uses basic Indian spices, and is ideal for lunch, dinner, or festive occasions.

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)

🔹 For the Spinach Purée:

• Fresh spinach (palak) – 250 grams (cleaned and chopped)

• Green chilies – 2

• Water – 2–3 cups for blanching

• Ice cubes – for ice bath

🔹 For the Gravy:

• Ghee or oil – 2 tbsp

• Cumin seeds – 1 tsp

• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped

• Garlic – 4 cloves, minced

• Ginger – 1-inch piece, minced

• Tomato – 1 medium, finely chopped

• Turmeric powder – ¼ tsp

• Red chili powder – ½ tsp

• Garam masala – ½ tsp

• Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek) – 1 tsp, crushed

• Salt – to taste

• Water – as needed

• Fresh cream – 2 tbsp (optional)

🔹 For Paneer:

• Paneer (Indian cottage cheese) – 200 grams, cut into cubes

• Ghee or oil – 1 tsp (optional, for lightly sautéing paneer)

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions: Palak Paneer

✅ Step 1: Blanch and Purée Spinach

1. Bring water to a boil. Add chopped spinach and green chilies.

2. Boil for 2 minutes until wilted.

3. Immediately transfer to an ice-cold water bath to retain the green color.

4. Drain and blend into a smooth spinach purée. Set aside.

🟢 Tip: Blanching and using an ice bath keeps the spinach bright green and prevents bitterness.

✅ Step 2: Prepare the Masala Base

1. Heat ghee or oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them crackle.

2. Add onions, sauté until golden brown.

3. Add ginger and garlic, cook until fragrant.

4. Stir in the chopped tomato. Cook until soft and oil begins to separate.

5. Add turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, and salt. Mix well.

✅ Step 3: Combine Spinach Purée with Masala

1. Add the prepared palak purée to the pan.

2. Mix well and let it simmer for 4–5 minutes on low heat.

3. Crush and add kasuri methi.

4. (Optional) Add 1–2 tbsp fresh cream for a creamy texture.

✅ Step 4: Add Paneer

1. (Optional) Lightly sauté paneer cubes in ghee until golden, or use them plain.

2. Add paneer to the spinach gravy.

3. Gently stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Don’t overcook.

🧠 If using store-bought paneer, soak in warm water for 10 mins to soften before adding.

🍽️ When & How to Serve Palak Paneer

💡 Perfect for vegetarians, and great as a high-protein Indian dinner.

🥣 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approx.)

✅ Palak Paneer is iron-rich, high in calcium, and suitable for diabetic diets if served with roti.

❓ Palak Paneer FAQs

Q1: Can I freeze palak paneer?

Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat gently with a splash of water.

Q2: Why does palak paneer turn dark?

Overcooking spinach or skipping the ice bath makes the color dull. Blanch briefly and use cold water.

Q3: Is palak paneer healthy?

Absolutely! It’s loaded with protein, iron, fiber, and essential vitamins, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.

🏁 Interesting Facts

This authentic restaurant-style palak paneer recipe gives you the perfect balance of nutrition and flavor. With a rich green spinach base and soft, creamy paneer cubes, it’s ideal for daily meals and special dinners alike. Follow this easy palak paneer recipe at home, and you’ll never order takeout again!