Saag Paneer is a delicious and popular Indian dish that has captured the hearts and palates of many around the world. With its vibrant flavors and creamy texture, it is no wonder why Saag Paneer has become a staple in Indian cuisine.

Originating from the Punjab region of India, Saag Paneer has a rich history that dates back centuries. Traditionally made using spinach, mustard leaves, or other leafy greens, this vegetarian dish is packed with nutrients and bursting with flavor. The addition of paneer, a fresh cheese commonly used in Indian cooking, adds a creamy and velvety element to the dish.

The recipe for Saag Paneer may seem daunting at first, but with a little practice and patience, you’ll soon master the art of creating this classic Indian dish. The combination of spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala elevates the flavors of the greens and paneer, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

Paneer: Paneer is a type of fresh cheese commonly used in Indian cooking. It has a mild, slightly creamy flavor and a firm, crumbly texture that holds its shape well when cooked.

Spinach: Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with nutrients like iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. It has a slightly bitter taste and cooks down quickly when sautéed.

Onion: Onions add a sweet and savory flavor to dishes when cooked. They also provide a nice texture and bulk to the dish.

Garlic: Garlic adds a pungent, spicy flavor to dishes and is commonly used in Indian cooking. It complements the other flavors in this dish well.

Green Chilli: Green chilies add heat and spice to the dish. Adjust the amount used according to your spice preference.

Ginger: Ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy flavor to dishes and is commonly used in Indian cooking. It pairs well with the other spices in this dish.

Cumin Seeds: Cumin seeds have a warm, earthy flavor and are commonly used in Indian cooking. They add a nice depth of flavor to the dish.

Garam Masala: Garam masala is a spice blend commonly used in Indian cooking. It typically includes warm, aromatic spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.

Turmeric Powder: Turmeric powder adds a bright yellow color to dishes and has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor. It is commonly used in Indian cooking for both flavor and color.

Coriander Powder: Coriander powder is made from ground coriander seeds and has a warm, citrusy flavor. It adds a nice depth of flavor to the dish.

Chilli Powder: Chili powder adds heat and spice to the dish. Adjust the amount used according to your spice preference.

Vegetable Oil: Vegetable oil is used for sautéing the ingredients and adds moisture and richness to the dish.

Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients in the dish and helps balance out the dish’s overall flavor profile.

Fresh Coriander Leaves: Fresh coriander leaves, also known as cilantro, add a fresh, bright flavor to dishes. They can be used as a garnish or stirred into the dish before serving.

Double Cream: Double cream is a rich, creamy ingredient that adds a luxurious texture to the dish. It balances out the heat and spice from the other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Saag Paneer is a classic North Indian dish made with fresh spinach and paneer (Indian cottage cheese) cooked in a spicy and flavorful gravy. Here are some serving suggestions and variations to enhance your Saag Paneer experience:

• Serve Saag Paneer hot with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan bread. You can also pair it with a side of cucumber raita or simple salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves for added freshness.
• For a richer and creamier version of Saag Paneer, add a dollop of double cream towards the end of cooking. This will give the dish a luscious texture and make it even more indulgent.
• If you prefer your Saag Paneer to be spicier, increase the amount of green chillies or add a dash of extra chilli powder to the dish. You can also garnish with some finely chopped green chillies for an extra kick.
• To add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to your Saag Paneer, try tossing in some toasted cashew nuts or almonds before serving. This will provide a delightful contrast to the creamy spinach and paneer.
• For a unique twist, you can add a touch of smokiness to your Saag Paneer by placing a piece of hot charcoal in the center of the dish and drizzling a little ghee over it. Cover the dish immediately to let the flavors infuse with the smoke.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Saag Paneer?

Saag Paneer is a popular Indian dish made with spinach (saag) and paneer (a type of Indian cheese). It is typically cooked with a mix of spices and served with rice or bread.

Is Saag Paneer vegetarian?

Yes, Saag Paneer is a vegetarian dish as it is made with spinach and paneer, both of which are vegetarian ingredients.

What does Saag Paneer taste like?

Saag Paneer has a creamy and slightly tangy flavor from the paneer cheese, and a savory and earthy taste from the spinach and spices.

How do you make Saag Paneer?

To make Saag Paneer, you first cook spinach with spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Then you add paneer cubes and cook until heated through. Some recipes also call for the addition of cream or yogurt for extra creaminess.

Can I make Saag Paneer ahead of time?

Yes, Saag Paneer can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Just reheat it before serving.

What can I serve with Saag Paneer?

Saag Paneer is typically served with rice, naan bread, or roti. You can also serve it with a side of raita (yogurt sauce) or chutney for added flavor.

Enjoy your delicious Saag Paneer!

Check Out These Other Recipes

Here are some more recipes for you to enjoy! If you my recipes don’t forget to rate and leave a comment.

• Saag Aloo
• Paneer Tikka Masala
• Paneer Tikka
• Aloo Palak
• Nawabi Paneer

If you have any recipe suggestions, please do not hesitate to ask me. A great way to stay in contact with me is through Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Don’t forget to tag me @CookwithNabeela in your recipe photos!

Saag Paneer

by Nabeela Kauser

This flavorful vegetarian dish combines creamy paneer cheese with a fragrant mix of spinach and Indian spices. Enjoy the bold flavors and rich textures of this classic Indian recipe that will surely satisfy your cravings for something delicious and satisfying.

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Sides

Cuisine Indian

Servings 4

Calories 304 kcal

Cook ModePrevent your screen from going dark

Ingredients

• ▢ 250 g Paneer cubed
• ▢ 200 g Spinach washed and chopped
• ▢ 2 tbsp Oil
• ▢ 1 Onion finely chopped
• ▢ 2 Garlic cloves minced
• ▢ 1 Green chilli finely chopped
• ▢ 1 tsp Ginger grated
• ▢ 1 tsp Cumin Seeds
• ▢ 1 tsp Garam Masala
• ▢ 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
• ▢ 1 tsp Coriander Powder
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Chilli Powder
• ▢ Salt
• ▢ Coriander
• ▢ 2 tbsp Double Cream optional

Instructions

• Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cubed paneer and fry until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
• In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter.
• Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent.
• Add the chopped green chilli and spinach to the pan. Cook until the spinach wilts down.
• Stir in the garam masala, turmeric powder, coriander powder, and red chilli powder. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma.
• Return the fried paneer to the pan. Mix well with the spinach mixture.
• Season with salt to taste. If using, stir in the double cream for added richness.
• Garnish with fresh coriander leaves before serving.

Notes

You can adjust the spice levels according to your preference by adding more or less green chilli and red chilli powder.

For a vegan version, you can substitute paneer with tofu and omit the double cream.

Serve saag paneer hot with naan bread or rice for a delicious meal.

Nutritional facts:

The provision of nutritional information is done so merely as a courtesy and should not be taken as a guarantee.

Nutrition

Calories: 304kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 11gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0.03gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 102mgPotassium: 367mgFibre: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 4880IUVitamin C: 18mgVitamin D: 0.1µgCalcium: 374mgIron: 2mg

Keyword Cooking, Food, Indian, Indian Food, Paneer, Recipe, Saag, Spinach, Vegetarian

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