Palak Paneer

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach (palak), washed and chopped
• 200g paneer (Indian cottage cheese), cut into cubes
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 green chili, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or plain yogurt (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons oil or ghee for cooking

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil or ghee in a large pan over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until they start to release their aroma.
2. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chili (if using). Cook for another couple of minutes until the raw smell disappears.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan and cook until they become soft and mushy.
5. Once the tomatoes are cooked down, add the ground turmeric, ground coriander, garam masala, and red chili powder. Mix well and cook for a minute to toast the spices.
6. Now, add the chopped spinach to the pan. Stir well and let it cook down until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Once the spinach is cooked down, transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. You can also use an immersion blender directly in the pan.
8. Return the blended spinach mixture to the pan. If using heavy cream or yogurt, add it now and mix well.
9. Gently add the paneer cubes to the spinach gravy and let them simmer for a few minutes until heated through.
10. Taste the palak paneer and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and more spices if desired.
11. Serve the palak paneer hot with rice or naan bread. Enjoy the delicious and nutritious flavors of this classic Indian dish!

This simple palak paneer recipe is easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal!