Classic Palak Paneer

Ingredients

• 500 grams Fresh Spinach (Palak)
• 250 grams Paneer (Indian Cottage Cheese)
• 2 tablespoons Ghee or Oil
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon Ginger-Garlic Paste
• 2 pieces Green Chilies
• 1 large Tomato, pureed
• 0.5 teaspoon Garam Masala
• 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream(optional)
• 1 teaspoon Cumin Seeds
• 1 teaspoon Salt

Instructions

1. 1

   Blanch the spinach leaves in boiling water for 2 minutes, then immediately shock them in ice-cold water to retain the green color.

2. 2

   Blend the cooled spinach with green chilies into a smooth puree and set aside.

3. 3

   Heat ghee in a pan and sauté cumin seeds until they splutter, then add chopped onions and fry until golden brown.

4. 4

   Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for another minute before stirring in the tomato puree and salt.

5. 5

   Cook the mixture until the oil starts to separate from the masala, then add the spinach puree and a splash of water.

6. 6

   Simmer for 5 minutes on low heat, then gently stir in the paneer cubes (pan-fry them first if you prefer a firmer texture).

7. 7

   Sprinkle garam masala and stir in the heavy cream for a rich, velvety finish.

8. 8

   Serve hot with naan or jeera rice.