Palak Paneer

Palak Paneer is the epitome of comfort food in Indian cuisine an earthy, creamy spinach curry studded with golden cubes of paneer that soak up every bit of spice and flavor. This vegetarian favorite is as nourishing as it is indulgent, blending tender blanched spinach, warming garam masala, fresh aromatics, and a splash of cream into a silky, fragrant sauce. Served alongside fluffy basmati rice, this Palak Paneer cheese recipe is a satisfying, wholesome meal that’s bound to become a staple on your table.

Prep time: 20min
Cook time: 10min
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

1/4 cup ghee, or unsalted butter, divided 14 ounces paneer, cut into 3/4-inch cubes 4 cups baby spinach, packed 10 cashews 1 green chile, seeds and stem removed 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon ginger, finely grated 2 1/2 teaspoons garam masala 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped 1 plum tomato, seeded and finely chopped 1/4 cup heavy cream, plus more for drizzling Cilantro, leaves, for garnish 4 cups basmati rice, cooked, kept warm, for serving

Directions:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of ghee in a large skillet over medium heat. Add paneer and cook, until light golden-brown, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer to plate and set aside. 
2. Fill large pot with water and bring to boil over high heat. Add spinach and blanch for 30 seconds, until wilted. Using a slotted spoon, transfer spinach to an ice bath. Reserve 1/4 cup of blanching liquid. Let spinach cool, then drain.
3. Combine spinach, cashews and green chile in blender. Blend, scraping down the sides as needed, until a smooth sauce forms. Set aside.
4. Heat remaining ghee in a large heavy-bottom pot over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger and garam masala, and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add onions and tomatoes and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup water and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
5. Stir in spinach mixture and heavy cream, and cook until sauce thickens slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add paneer and lightly toss to combine. Drizzle with additional heavy cream and garnish with cilantro. Serve with rice.