Saag Paneer

Saag Paneer is a popular dish made with spinach (saag) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese). It’s a nutritious and flavorful dish that is relatively simple to prepare.

Preparation Time: 20-30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Total Time: 50- 1 hour 10 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Saag:

  • 500g fresh spinach, washed and chopped
  • 200g paneer, cubed
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 green chilies, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil or ghee

Instructions:

  1. Blanch the Spinach:
    • Boil water in a large pot.
    • Add the chopped spinach and blanch for 2-3 minutes.
    • Drain the water and immediately transfer the spinach to ice water to retain the green color.
    • Once cooled, blend the spinach into a smooth puree.
  2. Prepare the Paneer:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil or ghee in a pan.
    • Lightly fry the paneer cubes until they turn golden brown.
    • Remove the paneer from the pan and set aside.
  3. Make the Saag:
    • In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed.
    • Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
    • Add chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions become golden brown.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Spices:
    • Add ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until the raw smell disappears.
    • Add chopped tomatoes and cook until they become soft.
    • Add turmeric powder, coriander powder, and salt. Mix well.
  5. Add Spinach Puree:
    • Pour in the spinach puree and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
    • Stir in the yogurt and continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add Paneer and Cream:
    • Gently add the fried paneer cubes to the spinach mixture.
    • Pour in the heavy cream and garam masala.
    • Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the flavors are well combined and the saag has thickened.
  7. Adjust Seasoning:
    • Taste and adjust the salt and spices according to your preference.
  8. Serve:
    • Saag Paneer is ready to be served. Garnish with a dollop of cream, if desired.
    • Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.