Indian Saag Paneer (Spinach with Indian Cheese)

Name: Indian Saag Paneer (Spinach with Indian Cheese)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400 g Paneer cheese, cut into cubes; 1000 g Fresh spinach (or 500g frozen); 1 pc Onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves Garlic, grated or minced; 2 cm Ginger, grated; 2 pcs Green chilies, chopped (to taste); 1 pc Tomato, chopped (or 2 tbsp tomato paste); 30 ml Ghee or vegetable oil; 1 tsp Whole cumin seeds; 0.5 tsp Turmeric powder; 1 tbsp Coriander powder; 0.5 tsp Red chili powder (to taste); 1 tsp Garam masala; 60 ml Heavy cream (or coconut milk for vegan); 120 ml Water; null to taste Salt

Difficulty

medium

Time

50m

Price Category

average

Calories

Medium

Saag Paneer is a classic and incredibly popular Indian dish, consisting of creamy spinach and soft, homemade paneer cheese cubes. Its rich blend of spices and smooth texture make it a true delight for the taste buds. It's a perfect choice for vegetarians or anyone craving a meat-free yet hearty and flavorful meal. Served with rice or naan bread, it provides a complete and satisfying dining experience.

Steps

Prepare Spinach

Thoroughly wash the fresh spinach. Bring water to a boil in a large pot, then blanch the spinach for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Drain it, then immediately transfer to ice water to preserve its vibrant color. Squeeze out excess water, then blend it into a smooth paste with a little water or without.

Prepare Base

In a large pan or pot, heat ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the whole cumin seeds and fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.

Spices and Tomato

Add the grated garlic, ginger, and chopped green chilies. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the turmeric, coriander, and red chili powder, and fry for 30 seconds. Add the chopped tomato (or tomato paste) and a splash of water, then cook for 5-8 minutes until the tomato softens and the sauce thickens.

Spinach and Paneer

Pour the blended spinach into the spiced base, mixing thoroughly. Add salt and garam masala. Let it simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes for the flavors to meld. Finally, add the heavy cream and paneer cubes, then gently stir. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the paneer is heated through, but do not overcook.

Serve

Serve hot with fresh naan bread, roti, or basmati rice. Garnish with a drizzle of cream or fresh coriander.

	Per 100g	Per Serving 250g
Calories	180 kcal	450 kcal
Protein	9g	22.5g
Fat	13g	32.5g
Carbohydrate	6g	15g
Fiber	2.5g	6.25g
Sugar	2g	5g

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dairy

vegetarian

sautéed

everyday

main course

creamy

Indian

all seasons

Hot

Indian Saag Paneer (Spinach with Indian Cheese)

Difficulty

Time

Price Category

Calories

ingredients

Steps

Prepare Spinach

Prepare Base

Spices and Tomato

Spinach and Paneer

Serve

Extra Tips

► You can lightly pan-fry the paneer cubes in a little ghee before adding them to the spinach for extra flavor and to help them hold their shape.

► If you like it spicier, add more green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

► Don't overcook the spinach to preserve its vibrant color and nutritional value.

Nutrition