A delicious palak paneer (Spinach with Indian cottage Cheese)

When it comes to Indian cuisine, few dishes are as beloved as palak paneer. This creamy, flavorful dish is a must-have at any Indian meal and is commonly served in restaurants and homes alike.

At its core, palak paneer is a combination of cooked spinach, Indian cottage cheese (paneer), and a flavorful blend of aromatic spices. It can be cooked in a variety of ways, from Punjabi-style to Dhaba-style, and can range from mild and creamy to spicy and flavorful.

The dish is simple to make, and all you need is a few basic ingredients.

• 2 bunches of fresh spinach (palak)
• Paneer cubes – 250 gms, cut into pieces.
• Onions – 1 large, chopped. 
• Tomatoes – 2 medium-sized, chopped finely. 
• Garlic cloves – 6-7 peeled and crushed. 
• Ginger paste – 1 tsp (add more if you want it strong). 
• Cumin seeds powder – 1 tsp. 
• Red chili powder – 1/2 tsp or as per taste.
• 2 Green Chillies slit lengthwise (Hari Mirch)
• Fresh curd/yogurt –  (optional). Salt to taste.
• 2 cups milk (coconut or regular milk)
• Oil for frying paneer cubes and onions (around 3 tbsp). 

Method Traditionally, palak paneer is made with spinach and cubed paneer, but you can also add other vegetables to give it a richer flavor and texture. Common additions include potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and garlic.

• Using a colander or strainer, rinse the palak (spinach) leaves, very well under running water.

• Then add ½ teaspoon salt and sugar and mix and cook for a couple of minutes more. So in all, you will cook the spinach for 5-7 mins on medium-high.

• Remove and keep aside (along with the remaining liquid) to cool and then puree it in a blender until smooth. Usually, the water remaining in the boiled spinach should be sufficient to puree but if not add some and puree.

• Now in a vessel heat oil in a vessel and once hot add the bay leaf and cumin seeds.

• Once the seeds splutter add the onion and saute till they turn translucent.

• Now add ginger garlic green chilies and saute till the raw garlic smell disappears and the onions are light brown.  Add the tomatoes, salt, and turmeric powder. Mix well.

• Cover and cook till tomatoes are soft. Now add all the powdered spices like red chili, cumin seeds, coriander, dry mango, and garam masala.

• Crush the fenugreek leaves between your palms and then add them to the gravy. Mix well and cook for about 2 mins stirring intermittently.

• Then add paneer cubes and gently mix so that all the masala is well incorporated with the paneer. Cover and cook for 2 mins.

• Finally, add the spinach puree and give it a good stir. Cook for about a minute or two.

•  When everything is cooked, it's time to add the cream. This is what gives the dish its creamy texture and flavor. It's ready to eat and it tastes best in tandoori roti, naan, and kulcha. Indian bread gives the best taste.

Palak paneer is a delicious and nutritious dish that is sure to please everyone. Whether you like it mild or spicy, there is a version of palak paneer for everyone. So why not give it a try? You won't be disappointed!