Palak Paneer Recipe with Sunflower Oil

Palak paneer is a beloved North Indian dish combining creamy spinach (palak) with soft paneer cheese, creating a flavorful and nutritious meal. This recipe highlights the use of refined sunflower oil, a heart-friendly oil perfect for cooking. Refined sunflower oil is known for its high content of Vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, making it a great choice for those mindful of their heart health

Ingredients

• 1 cup of cubed paneer (learn how to make paneer)
• 4-5 cups of palak or green spinach, packed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tsp of minced garlic
• 1/2 tsp of minced ginger
• 1 tsp of red chili powder
• 1 tsp of coriander powder
• 1/2 tsp of jeera (cumin) powder
• 1/4 tsp of turmeric powder
• 1 large pinch of kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves)
• 1 tsp of garam masala
• 2 tsp of refined sunflower oil for cooking 
• 1 pinch of hing (asafoetida)
• 1 heaping tsp of tomato paste or 1 pureed tomato (optional)
• 1 cup of milk or water
• 1 tbsp of plain curd or yogurt (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Blanch the Spinach

Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Dunk the washed spinach leaves into the boiling water.Let them simmer for about 2 minutes, then remove and drain. Puree the spinach to a smooth paste and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

In the same pot, heat 2 teaspoons of refined sunflower oil for cooking. This oil is excellent for cooking due to its high smoke point and heart-friendly properties. Add the cumin powder. Within 5 seconds, add the chopped onions and saute until golden brown.

Add the spice powders: coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, and hing. Fry for a few seconds, ensuring not to burn the spices. Add the minced ginger and garlic, then stir in the tomato paste if you’re using it.

Step 3: Combine Spinach and Paneer

Add the pureed spinach to the pot, mixing well. Pour in 1 cup of milk (or water for a lighter version) and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the kasuri methi and salt to taste. Cook covered for about 6-8 minutes, allowing the spinach and spices to blend well. Gently add the paneer pieces into the gravy, stirring carefully to avoid breaking them.

Step 4: Final Touches to the palak paneer recipe

For a thicker gravy, add a tablespoon of plain yogurt. Sprinkle garam masala on top, mix well, and remove from heat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your delicious palak paneer hot with naan, roti, or pulao. This palak paneer recipe is not only rich in flavours but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect addition to a heart-healthy diet.
Using refined sunflower oil for cooking enhances the health benefits of this palak paneer recipe. Sunflower oil for heart health is a wise choice due to its beneficial fatty acid profile and high vitamin E content. 

Enjoy this traditional dish with a modern, health-conscious twist!