Palak Paneer Amritsari (Fresh Spinach & Golden Seared Paneer Cheese Skillet) – Authentic India Recipe
Punjabi dhaba favorite nestling golden cheese cubes in a garlicky emerald spinach sauce.
- Country of Origin
- 🇮🇳 India (South Asia, Asia)
- Dietary Profile
- vegetarian
- Prep Time
- 15 min
- Cook Time
- 30 min
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Signature Staples
- Golden pan-seared paneer (or halloumi/tofu) cubes, Vibrant blanched spinach purée, Diced tomatoes, Toasted cumin seeds, Garlic
Ingredients for Palak Paneer Amritsari (Fresh Spinach & Golden Seared Paneer Cheese Skillet) (4 Servings)
- 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) golden pan-seared paneer (or halloumi/tofu) cubes, prepped into bite-sized pieces
- 1.5 cups vibrant blanched spinach purée, washed and trimmed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with toasted cumin seeds
- 1.5 tbsp traditional India seasoning (garlic, ginger, garam masala, touch of cream)
- 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Heat oil in a heavy Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat; brown golden pan-seared paneer (or halloumi/tofu) cubes for 5 minutes.
- Add minced onion, garlic, toasted cumin seeds, and garlic, ginger, garam masala, touch of cream, stirring for 2 minutes until deeply aromatic.
- Add vibrant blanched spinach purée and pour in the braising liquid; bring to a lively simmer.
- Cover and braise over medium-low heat for 20–22 minutes until meltingly tender and the sauce is rich and glossy.
- Stir in diced tomatoes right before serving warm.