Palak paneer recipe

Palak paneer recipe is a medium Indian recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by venky yadav for u on YouTube.

Prep: 20 min | Cook: 32 min | Total: 1 hr 7 min

Cost: $8.76 total, $2.19 per serving

Ingredients

  • 500 g Spinach (washed, trimmed, blanched)
  • 200 g Paneer (cut into 1‑inch cubes)
  • 1 medium Onion (thinly sliced)
  • 4 pieces Green Chilies (slit lengthwise, seeds left for heat)
  • 2 tbsp Oil (neutral cooking oil)
  • 1 tbsp Unsalted Butter (cut into small pieces)
  • 1 tsp Cumin Seeds (dry roasted before adding)
  • 1 tsp Coriander Powder (ground)
  • ½ tsp Garam Masala (light)
  • ½ tsp Salt (or to taste)
  • ½ cup Water (for simmering)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Cream (adds richness at the end)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spinach

    Rinse the spinach thoroughly, remove any tough stems, and roughly chop it. Set aside.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Blanch Spinach with Chilies

    Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the green chilies and then the chopped spinach. Cook for about 10 minutes until wilted.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: Boiling

  3. Shock and Drain

    Immediately transfer the boiled spinach to a bowl of ice‑cold water to stop cooking. Drain using a strainer and squeeze out excess water.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Blend to a Smooth Paste

    Place the cooled spinach in a blender, add a splash of water if needed, and blend until completely smooth.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Prep Remaining Ingredients

    Cut paneer into 1‑inch cubes, slice the onion thinly, and keep the slit chilies ready.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Temper Spices and Sauté Onion

    Heat oil and butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds; when they sizzle, add the sliced onion. Fry until the onion turns golden brown.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium

  7. Cook the Spinach Curry

    Add the spinach puree to the pan, then stir in salt, coriander powder, garam masala, and water. Simmer for 10 minutes until the raw spinach aroma disappears and the gravy thickens slightly.

    Time: PT10M

    Temperature: Medium

  8. Finish with Paneer and Cream

    Gently fold the paneer cubes into the gravy, add fresh cream and a small knob of butter. Cook for another 2 minutes on low heat, allowing the paneer to warm through without breaking.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Low

  9. Serve

    Transfer the palak paneer to a serving bowl and serve hot with rice, roti, or naan.

    Time: PT0M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
12g
Carbohydrates
10g
Fat
15g
Fiber
3g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

Allergens: Dairy (paneer, butter, cream)

Last updated: March 31, 2026

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Palak paneer recipe

Recipe by venky yadav for u

A classic North Indian spinach and paneer curry made with fresh spinach, soft paneer cubes, aromatic spices, and a touch of cream. This version follows the step‑by‑step method demonstrated by Venky Yadav for U, ensuring vibrant green color and a silky texture that pairs perfectly with rice, roti, or naan.

MediumIndianServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
15m
Prep
32m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
57m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$8.76
Total cost
$2.19
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Blanch spinach quickly and shock in ice water to retain bright green color
  • Blend spinach to a completely smooth puree for a silky texture
  • Add paneer at the end and cook only briefly to keep it soft
  • Finish with cream and butter for richness and to prevent the curry from drying out

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot boiling water with care to avoid burns
  • Hot oil can splatter; keep a lid nearby
  • Use caution when blending hot spinach – allow it to cool slightly before blending.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Palak Paneer in North Indian cuisine?

A

Palak Paneer is a beloved vegetarian staple in North India, originating from the Punjab region where paneer (cottage cheese) is a common protein source. The dish combines the health‑benefiting spinach with creamy paneer, reflecting the region’s emphasis on nutritious, hearty meals for both everyday dining and festive occasions.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Palak Paneer in Indian cuisine?

A

In Punjab, the curry is richer with butter and cream, while in Bengal a lighter version may use mustard oil and less dairy. Some South Indian adaptations add coconut milk or replace paneer with cottage cheese (chenna).

cultural
Q

How is Palak Paneer traditionally served in Indian households?

A

It is typically served hot with steamed basmati rice, jeera rice, or Indian flatbreads such as roti, naan, or paratha. A side of sliced onions and lemon wedges often accompanies the dish for added crunch and acidity.

cultural
Q

During which Indian celebrations is Palak Paneer commonly prepared?

A

Palak Paneer appears on festive menus for Diwali, Navratri, and family gatherings because it is both celebratory and vegetarian‑friendly, fitting the dietary preferences of many Indian households during religious events.

cultural
Q

What makes Palak Paneer special or unique within Indian vegetarian cuisine?

A

The combination of vibrant, nutrient‑dense spinach with soft, milky paneer creates a balance of flavors and textures that is both comforting and healthful, making it a signature dish that showcases the Indian love for dairy‑based gravies.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for traditional Palak Paneer versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include fresh spinach, paneer, ghee or butter, and Indian spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala. Substitutes such as firm tofu for paneer or kale for spinach can be used, but they alter the classic taste and texture.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Palak Paneer at home?

A

Common errors include over‑blanching the spinach (which turns it black), over‑cooking the paneer (making it rubbery), and adding too much water, which dilutes the gravy. Follow the timing cues and add paneer only at the end for best results.

technical
Q

Why does this Palak Paneer recipe use a brief blanching step instead of cooking the spinach directly in the pan?

A

Blanching locks in the bright green color and reduces the earthy bitterness of raw spinach. It also softens the leaves, making them easier to blend into a smooth puree, which is essential for the silky texture of the curry.

technical
Q

Can I make Palak Paneer ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Store the spinach puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the paneer and cream just before reheating on low heat; this keeps the paneer soft and prevents the sauce from separating.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel venky yadav for u specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel venky yadav for u focuses on Indian home‑cooking tutorials, especially quick and easy vegetarian recipes that respond to viewer requests, with clear step‑by‑step instructions and practical kitchen tips.

channel

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