Delicious Homemade Palak Paneer Recipe | Easy & Healthy Spinach Paneer Dish

Palak Paneer is a classic North Indian dish loved for its creamy texture and rich flavors. This vibrant green curry combines fresh spinach (palak) with soft paneer cubes, cooked in a flavorful blend of spices. One secret ingredient that enhances the taste and adds a unique depth of flavor is Yellow mustard oil. Using mustard oil not only gives the dish a rustic touch but also adds to its nutritional benefits.

Why Use Yellow Mustard Oil in Palak Paneer?

Yellow mustard oil is widely used in Indian cooking due to its distinct aroma and health benefits. It:
Enhances the earthy flavors of spinach
Aids digestion and boosts immunity
Gives a rich, traditional taste to the dish

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh spinach (palak), washed and chopped


• 200g paneer, cut into cubes


• 2 tbsp yellow mustard oil


• 1 medium onion, finely chopped


• 2 tomatoes, pureed


• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced


• 1-inch ginger, grated


• 1 green chili, chopped (optional)


• ½ tsp cumin seeds


• ½ tsp turmeric powder


• ½ tsp red chili powder


• ½ tsp garam masala


• Salt to taste


• ¼ cup fresh cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Blanch the Spinach:
   
   
   
   • Boil water in a pan and add the spinach leaves. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to ice-cold water.
   
   
   • Blend into a smooth puree and set aside.
   
   
   
   


2. Prepare the Base:
   
   
   
   • Heat yellow mustard oil in a pan until it reaches its smoking point. Let it cool slightly before adding cumin seeds.
   
   
   • Add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
   
   
   
   


3. Add the Tomatoes & Spices:
   
   
   
   • Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, and green chili. Cook for a minute.
   
   
   • Add tomato puree and cook until the oil starts to separate.
   
   
   
   


4. Cook the Spinach & Paneer:
   
   
   
   • Add turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Stir in the spinach puree.
   
   
   • Let it simmer for 4-5 minutes.
   
   
   • Add paneer cubes and mix well.
   
   
   
   


5. Finish & Serve:
   
   
   
   • Sprinkle garam masala and mix. Add fresh cream for a richer taste.
   
   
   • Serve hot with naan, roti, or rice.
   
   
   
   

Final Thoughts

Using yellow mustard oil in Palak Paneer gives the dish an authentic, bold taste while boosting its nutritional value. Try this delicious homemade recipe and enjoy a restaurant-style dish at home!