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Sak Paneer Recipe

Hare Krishna Sak Paneer recipe offered in a traditional clay bowl.
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Paneer Sak is a comforting and flavorful dish, inspired by the principles of bhakti yoga. This rich Paneer Sak 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.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) fresh spinach, washed and stemmed
  • 1 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 2 pinches asafoetida (hing)
  • 3 tbsp water
  • 2/3 cup (150 ml) sour cream (optional)
  • 8 oz (225 g) paneer, cubed
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spinach:
    • Wash and stem the spinach, then blanch it in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and chop finely.
  2. Prepare the Tempering:
    • In a large pan, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add ground coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper, garam masala, and asafoetida. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
  3. Cook the Spinach:
    • Add the chopped spinach and 3 tbsp of water to the pan. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the spinach is tender.
  4. Add Paneer and Seasonings:
    • Stir in the cubed paneer, salt, and sugar. Mix well.
    • If using, add the sour cream and mix until fully incorporated.
  5. Simmer:
    • Reduce the heat and let the dish simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  6. Finish and Serve:
    • Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
    • Offer to Krishna and serve hot with rice or bread.

Notes

  • Versatility Tip: You can use any combination of greens you have on hand, such as kale or Swiss chard, in place of spinach.
  • Homemade Spice Powders: You can make your own ground spice powders by dry roasting the seeds, spices, and herbs in a pan over a flame until they become aromatic, then cooling and grinding them. This will enhance the quality of the prepared offering.
  • Frozen Spinach or Greens: You can use frozen spinach in place of fresh if you do not have fresh spinach or greens on hand. 

Nutrition

Find it online: https://harekrishnarecipes.com/recipes/main-course/sak-paneer-recipe/