Step 1: Fry Paneer

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a pan. Add 250 grams of paneer cubes and 1/4 tablespoon of salt. Cook until the paneer turns light golden brown on all sides, then remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pan with the remaining oil, add 1/2 tablespoon of cumin seeds, 2 bay leaves, and chopped green chilies. Sauté for a few seconds until fragrant. Add 1 chopped medium onion and cook until it turns light golden brown.

Step 3: Add Ginger-Garlic Paste

Add 1 tablespoon of garlic paste and 1/2 tablespoon of ginger paste to the pan. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously, until the raw smell disappears.

Step 4: Cook Tomato and Spices

Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the pan. Then add 1 tablespoon of coriander powder, 1 tablespoon of red chili powder, 1/2 tablespoon of garam masala powder, 1/2 tablespoon of salt, and 1/2 tablespoon of turmeric powder. Mix well and cook for 3-4 minutes until the oil separates from the masala.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach and Cream

Add 250 grams of spinach puree and 2 tablespoons of milk cream to the cooked masala. Mix thoroughly and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Simmer Gravy

Pour 1 cup of water into the pan and mix to achieve the desired gravy consistency. Cover the pan with a lid and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the gravy to simmer and thicken slightly.

Step 7: Add Paneer and Finish

Add the previously fried paneer cubes to the simmering gravy. Gently stir to coat the paneer with the spinach gravy. Turn off the flame. Your Palak Paneer is ready to be served.

• For a richer gravy, you can add a tablespoon of cashew paste along with the spinach puree.

• Adjust the spice level according to your preference by modifying the amount of green chilies and red chili powder.

• To prevent paneer from becoming hard, avoid over-frying it. Fry until just light golden.

• Add a pinch of fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) for an enhanced aroma.

• For a vegan version, replace paneer with firm tofu and milk cream with cashew cream or coconut cream.