Name: Palak Paneer
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon oil or ghee; 1 teaspoon cumin seeds; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon grated ginger; 2 green chilies, chopped; 5 cups fresh spinach leaves or 2 cups frozen spinach; 1/4 cup water; 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional); 250 grams paneer, cubed; Juice of half a lemon (optional)

Palak Paneer is the epitome of comfort food in Indian cuisine—a creamy, vibrant green spinach curry dotted with tender cubes of paneer cheese. It’s wholesome, warming, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re exploring Indian dishes for the first time or it’s your nostalgic go-to, this vegetarian favorite offers a hearty and nutritious option that’s as delightful as it is filling.

The beauty of Palak Paneer lies in its balance. Earthy spinach purée is seasoned with spices like cumin, garam masala, and turmeric, while fresh ginger and garlic round out the profile with warmth. Paneer absorbs these flavors beautifully, offering a satisfying bite that’s rich without being heavy. It pairs wonderfully with naan, roti, or a bowl of basmati rice.

What Kind of Paneer Should I Use?

Fresh homemade paneer is ideal for its soft, springy texture and purity of flavor, but store-bought paneer works just as well if you give it a quick soak in hot water to soften. Look for firm, non-melting paneer blocks at your local Indian market or grocery store.

Ingredients for the Palak Paneer

1 tablespoon oil or ghee
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
2 green chilies, chopped (adjust to spice preference)
5 cups fresh spinach leaves (or 2 cups frozen spinach)
1/4 cup water (for blending spinach)
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon garam masala
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for creamier texture)
250 grams paneer, cubed
Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)

How To Make the Palak Paneer

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat oil or ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Toss in onions and cook until golden, then add garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Stir until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook and Blend the Spinach

Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted (or warmed through if using frozen). Let cool slightly, then transfer to a blender with 1/4 cup water. Blend until smooth and vibrant.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Return the purée to the skillet. Add turmeric, coriander, garam masala, and salt. Simmer gently for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

Step 4: Add the Paneer

Gently stir in paneer cubes, coating them in the creamy spinach sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes, adding cream if desired.

Step 5: Finish with Brightness

Turn off the heat and stir in lemon juice if using. Serve hot with rice or your favorite Indian bread.

How to Serve and Store Palak Paneer

Serve Palak Paneer hot, paired with warm naan, roti, or a bowl of basmati rice. For an added indulgence, a drizzle of cream or a dollop of yogurt enhances the richness.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid freezing, as the spinach texture may change.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Palak Paneer vegan?

Substitute paneer with tofu and use oil instead of ghee. Swap cream with coconut cream or a plant-based milk alternative.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, thaw and drain it well before using. It works just as well and saves time.

How do I prevent the green color from dulling?

Avoid overcooking the spinach and add lemon juice at the end to help retain brightness.

What does Palak Paneer taste like?

It has a mild, savory, and slightly tangy taste with creamy texture and subtle spice.

Is Palak Paneer spicy?

It’s usually mild, but you can adjust the heat by altering the number of green chilies.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! It even tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Want More Indian-Inspired Comfort Dishes?

If Palak Paneer hits the spot, you might also enjoy these flavorful comfort meals:

Marry Me Chicken Pasta for creamy indulgence.
Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a rich, one-pan dinner.
Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole for hearty Tex-Mex vibes.
Shipwreck Dinner for a nostalgic family-style meal.
Nutella French Toast Casserole for a sweet brunch companion.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest vegetarian board so it’s ready when your cravings hit.

Have you tried this Palak Paneer? Leave a comment with your twist. Did you spice it up or keep it creamy? Did you go vegan?

Let’s share how we make it ours and cook better together.

Check out more of my daily recipes and visual inspiration on Pinterest @NinaDishes.

Palak Paneer

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian curry featuring creamy spinach and paneer cheese. This comforting vegetarian dish is rich in flavor and spices while being nutritious and easy to prepare. It’s perfect with naan, roti, or basmati rice for a satisfying meal.

Instructions

1. Heat oil or ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Add onions and cook until golden. Stir in garlic, ginger, and green chilies until fragrant.

2. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Let cool slightly, then transfer to a blender with 1/4 cup water. Blend until smooth.

3. Pour the spinach purée back into the skillet. Stir in turmeric, coriander, garam masala, and salt. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.

4. Add the cubed paneer and gently stir to coat in the sauce. Simmer for 5 more minutes. Add cream if desired.

5. Turn off heat and stir in lemon juice for brightness. Serve hot.