Description
This Indian Saag Paneer is a hearty and nourishing spinach curry made with golden paneer cubes and a blend of Indian spices. Rich in iron, protein, and flavor—perfect for pairing with naan, rice, or low-carb sides.
Ingredients
Scale
Greens:
- 4 cups spinach (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup mustard greens or kale (optional)
Paneer & Base:
- 200g paneer, cut into cubes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped or puréed
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1–2 green chilies, chopped
Spices & Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
- 2 tablespoons oil or ghee
- Salt to taste
- 2–3 tablespoons water or cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Greens: Boil spinach and mustard greens in 1–2 cups water for 3–4 minutes until wilted. Drain, cool, and blend into a purée.
- Fry Paneer: In a skillet, heat oil or ghee. Lightly fry paneer cubes until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Make Masala Base: In the same pan, add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and green chilies. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add Tomatoes & Spices: Add tomatoes, turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Simmer Saag: Stir in spinach purée. Simmer for 5–6 minutes, adjusting consistency with water or cream. Add garam masala.
- Finish: Add fried paneer cubes. Cook for another 3–4 minutes. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use multiple greens (like mustard or kale) for authentic flavor.
- Let greens cool before blending to avoid bitterness.
- Use fresh paneer or substitute tofu for a vegan version.
- Add cream or Greek yogurt for extra richness if desired.
- Storage: Refrigerate for 3 days or freeze without paneer for 1 month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: Saag Paneer, Indian Spinach Curry, Paneer Recipes, Healthy Indian Food, Vegetarian Indian Dinner