Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 1.Prepare Spinach for Blanching

   Add 1 teaspoon of sugar to a pot of water. Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil.

2. 2.Blanch the Spinach

   Once the water is boiling, add 250 grams of spinach leaves. Blanch the spinach for 1-2 minutes until vibrant green. Immediately transfer the blanched spinach to a bowl of ice-cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve its color.

3. 3.Prepare Spinach Puree

   Transfer the blanched spinach to a blender. Add a handful of cilantro, 3-4 green chilies, and 1-2 tablespoons of water. Blend until a smooth puree is formed. Set aside.

4. 4.Sauté Aromatics and Spices

   In a pot, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee and 1 tablespoon of oil. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add 2 dry red chilies, 1 bay leaf, and a 1-inch cinnamon stick. Then, add 1 medium chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.

5. 5.Add Ginger-Garlic and Tomato

   Add 1 teaspoon of ginger/garlic paste to the pot and sauté for 1 minute. Next, add 1 medium puréed tomato and cook for 1-2 minutes. Cover the pot and allow it to cook for another 1-2 minutes.

6. 6.Incorporate Dry Spices

   Uncover the pot and add 1 teaspoon of red chili powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons of coriander powder, 1/4 teaspoon of turmeric powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder, 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons of kasuri methi, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Pour in 1/4 cup of hot water and cook until the oil begins to release from the mixture.

7. 7.Combine with Spinach Puree

   Add the prepared spinach puree to the pot. Mix well with the spice mixture. Cook for 7-8 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

8. 8.Fry Paneer

   In a separate pan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil. Add 200 grams of cubed paneer and cook until golden brown on all sides.

9. 9.Finish the Palak Paneer

   Add the fried paneer cubes to the spinach gravy. Simmer for a few minutes to heat the paneer through. Cover the pot briefly, then remove from heat.

10. 10.Garnish and Serve

    Garnish the Palak Paneer with a swirl of cream. Serve hot with garlic naan or your favorite Indian bread.