Palak paneer

Home cooked food is always special. It's far lighter, fresher and well balanced than what we get in restaurants. But the challenge is to get the rich flavor and texture, yet keep it healthy. This post is on palak paneer, one of the simplest and healthiest paneer dish.

Palak or spinach leaves are boiled in water and pureed. It's then cooked with onions and tomatoes. Milk is added and simmered till the gravy gets its consistency. Since it's one of my regulars, I prefer it to be low cal and less spicy. So no cream and just 1/2 tsp of garam masala.

P.S.
Of all the palak paneer I have tasted, the one I had during my post grad was the best. Thanks to Divya's mom.So divs.. share the recipe!!!!! :)


INGREDIENTS
serves - 2

• Palak / spinach      -   1 cup (chopped)
• Paneer                  -   150 g (cubed)
• Milk                     - 1/2 cup ( about 90 - 100 ml)
• Onion                   - 1 ( finely chopped, medium size)
• Tomato                -  1 ( finely chopped, medium size)
• Ginger                  -  1 small piece, finely chopped
• Garlic                   - 1 clove , finely chopped
• Green chillies        - 1or 2 finely chopped
• Turmeric powder  - 1/4 tsp
• Chilli powder       - 1/2 tsp
• Garam masala      - 1/2 tsp
• Coriander powder - 1/2 tsp (optional)
• Cornflour/ maida   - 1/2 tsp
• Cumin                   - 1 tsp
• Oil                       - 2-3 tsp
• Salt
• Water

1. Blanch the spinach in boiling water for 50-60 seconds, remove and immerse in cold water/tap water.Drain  and puree the spinach with less than 1/4 cup water. OR Microwave the chopped spinach with1/4  cup water for 2 - 3 minutes and then puree using blender.
2. Heat oil, add cumin once it splutters add ginger, garlic, turmeric and green chillies. Saute.
3. Add onions and saute for a minute or two till it starts turning light brown.
4. Add chopped tomatoes and saute again for a minute.
5. Add coriander powder, chilli  powder, and the puree. Mix well, add salt and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.
6. Mix flour with  milk to make a smooth paste and add it (in small portions) to the gravy while stirring continuosly.Add garam masala.
7. Add the  chopped paneer.Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes or till the gravy thickens.Serve hot.