Description
Saag Paneer is a classic North Indian dish featuring fresh spinach cooked with aromatic spices and creamy paneer cubes. This vegetarian recipe combines the earthiness of spinach with the richness of paneer and cream, making it a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for serving with naan or rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Herbs
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
Spices
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dairy
- 250g paneer, cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp cooking oil (such as vegetable or mustard oil, inferred)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: Thoroughly wash the spinach and blanch it in boiling water for two minutes to soften. Immediately plunge the spinach into ice water to retain its vibrant green color. Drain well and set aside.
- Sauté Cumin and Onions: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and cook until they begin to sizzle and release aroma. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, about 7-8 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Spinach with Spices: Add the blanched spinach along with coriander powder, turmeric powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for about five minutes until the mixture is well combined and flavors meld.
- Simmer with Cream and Paneer: Reduce heat to low, stir in the heavy cream and cubed paneer. Simmer gently for another five minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the paneer to absorb the spices.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat. Optionally garnish with additional cream. Serve hot with naan bread or steamed rice for an authentic Indian meal experience.
Notes
- Blanching spinach and then shocking it in ice water helps retain its bright green color and reduces bitterness.
- If paneer is unavailable, firm tofu can be used as a substitute for a similar texture.
- Adjust the amount of cream to make the dish richer or lighter according to preference.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor impact.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
