Palak Paneer

```html Nutritious Palak Paneer: A Health Boost for All Lifestyles

Delicious and Nutritious Palak Paneer Recipe

Perfect for young parents, busy professionals, gym enthusiasts, and health-conscious vegetarians, Palak Paneer is a beloved dish that marries traditional flavors with modern nutrition. This guide offers an easy-to-follow recipe, explores its health benefits, and provides tips for variations, serving, and storage.

What is Palak Paneer?

Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian curry, featuring soft paneer (Indian cottage cheese) simmered in pureed spinach with aromatic spices. Known for its vibrant color and creamy texture, it offers a delightful flavor profile that makes it a household favorite.

Health Benefits

Spinach, a key ingredient in Palak Paneer, is rich in iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, according to the USDA National Nutrient Database. Paneer contributes protein and calcium, supporting muscle growth and bone health. Together, they create a nutrient-dense dish perfect for maintaining a balanced diet (Healthline).

Ingredients & Substitutions

  • 500g / 1 lb fresh spinach (or frozen)
  • 250g / 8.8 oz paneer
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • 1 tomato, pureed
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup water (adjust as needed)

Substitutions: Use tofu for a vegan version. Almond milk can replace regular cream for a lighter texture.

Step-by-Step Recipe

  1. Blanch spinach in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and cool.
  2. Blend spinach into a fine paste and set aside.
  3. Heat oil in a pan, add cumin seeds until they crackle.
  4. Add onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until onions are golden.
  5. Add tomato puree and cook for 3-4 minutes.
  6. Stir in spinach paste, paneer, and water. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  7. Finish with garam masala and salt. Mix well and serve hot.

If the curry is too dry, add more water or almond milk. Adjust salt as needed.

Nutrition Information

Ingredient Calories Protein
Spinach (500g) 115 14g
Paneer (250g) 650 50g
Complete dish 800 64g
With Rebalance high-protein atta roti 950 72g

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with steamed basmati rice for a classic combination.
  • Enjoy with naan for a richer meal.
  • Boost protein intake with Rebalance high-protein atta rotis.
  • Add a cucumber salad for a refreshing side.
  • Top with yogurt for added creaminess.
  • Serve with pickle and papad for authenticity.

Recipe Variations

  • Substitute tofu for paneer for a vegan alternative.
  • Add cream for a richer texture.
  • Include peas or corn for natural sweetness.
  • Add chili for a spicy kick.
  • Incorporate almonds or cashews for a nutty flavor.

Storage Tips

Store Palak Paneer in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding water as needed to adjust consistency.

Dietary Notes

This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan with tofu and dairy-free cream. Check labels for cross-contamination if you have allergies.

Expert Cooking Tips

  • Use fresh spinach for a vibrant color.
  • Adjust spices to your taste preference.
  • Avoid overcooking spinach to retain nutrients.
  • Add paneer at the end to keep it soft.
  • Simmer gently for optimal flavor blending.
  • A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten flavors.
  • Stir in yogurt to mellow spicy flavors.
  • Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen spinach?
    Yes, thaw before blending.
  2. Is Palak Paneer keto-friendly?
    With modifications like reducing tomato, it can be.
  3. How do I make it vegan?
    Use tofu instead of paneer and almond milk cream.
  4. What if I don’t have garam masala?
    Substitute with cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom.
  5. Can kids eat Palak Paneer?
    Absolutely, adjust spices for a milder flavor.

Recipe Card

Social Media Assets

Instagram Caption: "Indulge in health with our Palak Paneer recipe! Spinach & paneer combine for a protein-packed dish. #HealthyEating #Rebalance"

X Post: "Palak Paneer: A delicious blend of flavors and nutrition! Perfect for health enthusiasts. #ProteinRich #PalakPaneer"

Pinterest Description: "Nutritious Palak Paneer recipe that combines traditional flavors with modern nutrition needs. Perfect for young parents and gym-goers!"

Video Script 1: "Here's how to make Palak Paneer in under 30 minutes. Ideal for a quick, nutritious meal!"

Video Script 2: "Discover the benefits of Palak Paneer - a dish that’s as healthy as it is delicious!"

Video Script 3: "Rebalance brings you Palak Paneer that's rich in flavor and high in protein. Perfect for everyone in the family!"

Image Captions & Alt Text

  • Caption: "Freshly made Palak Paneer served in a beautiful bowl."
  • Alt Text: "A bowl of vibrant green Palak Paneer with aromatic spices."

Internal & External Citations

Explore our range of healthy products: Rebalance Atta, High-Protein Breakfasts

References: USDA Database, Healthline

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