Homestyle Saag Paneer

Ingredients

• 250g (9 oz) paneer cheese, cubed 250g (9 oz) paneer cheese, cubed
• 500g (1 lb) fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped 500g (1 lb) fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 tomatoes, pureed 2 tomatoes, pureed
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise 2 green chilies, slit lengthwise
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil 2 tablespoons ghee (clarified butter) or vegetable oil
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 5g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat ghee or oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter.
2. 2.
   Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
3. 3.
   Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and slit green chilies. Cook for a minute until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the pureed tomatoes and cook until the mixture thickens and the oil separates.
5. 5.
   Sprinkle turmeric powder, garam masala, and red chili powder. Mix well.
6. 6.
   Add the chopped spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
7. 7.
   Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then blend it into a smooth puree using a blender or immersion blender.
8. 8.
   Return the pureed spinach mixture to the pan and bring it to a gentle simmer.
9. 9.
   Add the cubed paneer cheese and stir gently to combine.
10. 10.
    Pour in the heavy cream and season with salt. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
11. 11.
    Remove from heat and garnish with a drizzle of cream and a sprinkle of garam masala.
12. 12.
    Serve hot with basmati rice or naan bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Paneer cheese — To enhance the flavor and texture of paneer, lightly pan-fry the cubes before adding them to the dish. This step adds a delicious golden crust to the cheese and prevents it from becoming too soft in the gravy.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the spinach puree before adding it back to the pan.
• To make the dish healthier, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or Greek yogurt.
• Adjust the consistency of the gravy by adding a little water if it becomes too thick.
• For a burst of freshness, squeeze some lemon juice over the Saag Paneer before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Saag Paneer hot, garnished with a drizzle of cream and a sprinkle of garam masala. Accompany it with fragrant basmati rice or warm naan bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Saag Paneer in a vibrant green bowl or plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the dish. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro for an added touch of freshness.