Saag Paneer

Anyone who’s ventured into an Indian restaurant has no doubt tasted saag paneer. It’s a hearty and nutritious dish that originated in the Punjab region of India, a fertile agricultural area known for its cuisine. Made with leafy greens, usually spinach, (saag) and fresh cheese (paneer) it is often served with flatbread or rice. It’s a perfect vegetarian meal, or side dish to fish or chicken.

Saag Paneer

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes

Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

Total Time:  35-45 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups spinach leaves, washed and chopped
• 7 oz paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cubed or tofu
• 2 tablespoons ghee or oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
•  Water, as needed

Instructions

Bring a pot of water to boil. Add the spinach leaves and blanch for 2-3 minutes. Remove from the water and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain the spinach and blend it into a smooth puree.

Next, heat a tablespoon of ghee or oil in a pan. Fry the paneer cubes until they turn golden brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of ghee or oil. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Then put in chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.

Add minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chili (if using). Sauté for another minute until the raw smell disappears.

Next, add chopped tomatoes and cook until they turn soft and mushy.

Now add garam masala, ground coriander, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well and cook for a couple of minutes until the spices are fragrant.

Pour in the spinach puree and mix everything together. Add water if needed to adjust the consistency. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.

Add the fried paneer cubes to the spinach mixture. Stir well to combine.

Optionally, add heavy cream for a richer texture. Stir it in and let the palak paneer simmer for another 2-3 minutes.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with rice or Indian bread like naan or roti.

Nutritional Information per Serving*

Calories: 280;  Protein: 12g;  Fat: 20g; Carbohydrates: 15g; Fiber: 5g: Sugar: 5g; Sodium: 600mg

*Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.*