Palak Paneer is a nutritious and flavorful dish made with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a creamy spinach sauce. This dish is perfect for those who follow a sattvic diet, free from onions and garlic, making it suitable for offering to Krishna.
Prepared with love and devotion, Palak Paneer is a beloved dish among devotees and a delightful addition to any meal.
Serving Suggestions
Palak Paneer can be enjoyed in various ways:
- With Rice: Serve Palak Paneer with plain basmati rice or jeera rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
- With Bread: Pair with roti, naan, or chapati for a delightful combination.
- As a Main Dish: Serve as a main dish along with other complementary dishes for a well-rounded meal.
- With Chutney: Pair with a sweet or spicy chutney to complement the rich flavors.
These serving suggestions make for a balanced and satisfying meal, fostering a sense of community and togetherness when shared with fellow devotees.
History
Palak Paneer has a special place in the hearts of devotees. This recipe was developed to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that adheres to the principles of a sattvic diet, free from onions and garlic. Palak Paneer is a popular dish in Indian cuisine, and this version, with its emphasis on purity and devotion, has become a staple in many Hare Krishna kitchens.
Bhakti Thought
Palak Paneer is more than just a dish; it is an expression of creativity, nourishment, and devotion. By preparing and offering this dish to Krishna, we engage in the sacred practice of bhakti, transforming the act of cooking into a spiritual journey. This dish serves as a reminder that even the simplest of ingredients, when combined with devotion and care, can create something extraordinary. Let this Palak Paneer inspire you to cook with a heart full of love and to see each meal as an offering to Krishna, bringing us closer to Him with every bite.
PrintPalak Paneer Recipe
Palak Paneer is a comforting and flavorful dish, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This rich Palak Paneer combines wholesome ingredients, creating a harmonious blend that enhances any meal. In the tradition of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, cooking and offering food to Krishna is an act of love and devotion, known as bhakti. Each dish is prepared with care, mindfulness, and a pure heart, making it not just a meal but a spiritual offering.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 – 6 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté and Simmer
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 cups spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups paneer, cubed
- 2 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp red chili powder
- 1 small can tomato puree (about 1/2 cup)
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tsp ghee
- A pinch of turmeric powder
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup water
- For the Masala Paste:
- 1 clove
- 1-inch cinnamon stick (dalchini)
- 1 tsp cumin seeds (jeera)
- 1 tsp coriander powder
- 1 tsp ginger paste
- 2 dry red chilies
Instructions
Instructions
- Prepare the Masala Paste:
- In a blender or spice grinder, blend the clove, cinnamon stick, cumin seeds, coriander powder, ginger paste, and dry red chilies into a smooth paste. Set aside.
- Cook the Spinach:
- In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the spinach and blanch for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Drain and cool. Blend the spinach into a smooth puree and set aside.
- Cook the Paneer:
- In a pan, heat 1 tsp ghee over medium heat. Add the cubed paneer and sauté until lightly golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare the Gravy:
- In the same pan, heat the remaining 1 tsp ghee. Add the prepared masala paste and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the tomato puree, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook for 5 minutes until the oil separates from the masala.
- Combine and Cook:
- Add the spinach puree to the masala. Mix well and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add the milk and water, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the sautéed paneer cubes and salt to taste. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the paneer is heated through and the flavors meld together.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.
- Add a swirl of heavy whipping cream (optional).
- Offer to Krishna and serve hot with rice or bread.
Notes
- Blanching Tip: Blanching the spinach helps retain its vibrant green color. Be sure to cool it quickly in cold water after blanching.
- Paneer Tip: Sautéing the paneer cubes until lightly golden brown enhances their texture and flavor.
- Consistency Tip: Adjust the amount of water to achieve the desired consistency for the gravy.
- Serving Suggestion: Palak Paneer pairs wonderfully with a side of plain basmati rice or warm naan bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg