The aroma wafts through the air, a creamy spinach curry with paneer bubbling away on the stove, inviting you to dive into a world of rich flavors and comforting warmth. Picture this: vibrant green spinach dancing harmoniously with cubes of soft, succulent paneer, all enveloped in a luscious sauce that whispers sweet nothings to your taste buds.

Every family has that one dish that brings everyone together, and for me, it’s this creamy spinach curry with paneer. I remember the first time I made it — my kitchen turned into a mini-Indian restaurant, complete with dramatic hand gestures and an overzealous enthusiasm for spices. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish never fails to impress.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy spinach curry is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect even for novice cooks.
- The flavor profile is rich and delightful, balancing earthy spinach with creamy goodness and aromatic spices.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant green color and contrasting white paneer cubes, it’s sure to tempt anyone’s appetite.
- It’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or side, pairing beautifully with naan or rice.
Ingredients for Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Spinach: Use about 6 cups of fresh spinach leaves; they should be vibrant green without any wilting.
Paneer: About 250 grams of paneer is ideal; choose fresh paneer for the best texture.
Onion: One medium onion adds sweetness; chop finely for even cooking.
Garlic: Four cloves should do the trick; use fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
Ginger: A thumb-sized piece will add warmth; grate it finely.
For the Sauce:
Coconut Milk: One cup of coconut milk brings creaminess; opt for full-fat for richness.
Cumin Powder: One teaspoon enhances earthy notes; toast it lightly before adding for extra depth.
Turmeric Powder: A pinch of turmeric lends color and health benefits; it’s like sunshine in your curry!
Red Chili Powder: Adjust according to your spice tolerance; start with half a teaspoon if you’re unsure.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
Start by washing the spinach thoroughly under running water. Boil a pot of water and blanch the spinach leaves for about two minutes until wilted. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice-cold water to preserve their vibrant green color.
Step 2: Blend Into Puree
Once cooled, transfer the blanched spinach into a blender. Add half of the garlic and ginger along with a splash of water if needed. Blend until you achieve a smooth puree that looks like springtime on your plate.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pan over medium heat, add some oil or ghee (because why not?). Once hot, throw in the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add the remaining garlic and ginger and cook until fragrant — about one minute.
Step 4: Spice It Up
Sprinkle in cumin powder, turmeric powder, and red chili powder over the sautéed onions. Stir well so that everything gets coated in those aromatic spices. Cook for another minute.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Pour in the spinach puree and coconut milk into your spiced onion mixture. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about five minutes so all flavors meld beautifully together.
Step 6: Add Paneer
Finally, gently fold in the cubed paneer into the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional five minutes until everything is heated through but be careful not to break up your lovely paneer cubes!
Transfer to plates and serve hot with naan or steamed rice for the perfect finishing touch! Enjoy every bite as this creamy spinach curry takes you on an unforgettable culinary journey!
You Must Know
- This creamy spinach curry with paneer brings comfort and a burst of flavor to your table.
- It’s a delightful dish that’s easy to make, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in.
- The vibrant green color and creamy texture will surely steal the show!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and spices until fragrant. Then, add spinach and cook until wilted. Next, incorporate the paneer and finish with cream for that luscious texture. This sequence ensures every ingredient shines at its best.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap paneer with tofu for a vegan twist or toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or peas. Spice lovers can add chili flakes or garam masala for an extra kick.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm on the stove with a splash of water to maintain creaminess without burning.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the creamiest spinach curry, blend the spinach until smooth before adding it back to the pan; this enhances the texture.
- Avoid overcooking paneer—just warm it through for a tender bite.
- Lastly, always taste before serving; sometimes, just a pinch more salt makes all the difference!
The first time I made creamy spinach curry with paneer, my friend declared it “the ultimate comfort food.” That encouragement made me realize just how special this dish can be when shared with loved ones.
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer?
To prepare Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer, you’ll need fresh spinach, paneer, onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and spices like cumin and garam masala. Coconut milk or cream adds the creamy texture, while green chilies can enhance the heat. You may also include salt and oil for cooking. This delightful dish combines the earthy flavors of spinach with the richness of paneer to create a comforting meal that pairs well with rice or naan.
How long does it take to cook Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer?
Cooking Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer takes about 30 to 40 minutes. First, prepare the spinach by blanching it for a few minutes. Sauté the onions and spices in a pan while blending the spinach into a smooth paste. Combine everything together and let it simmer until the flavors meld perfectly. The quick cooking time makes this dish ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a gratifying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I make Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer vegan?
Yes, you can easily make a vegan version of Creamy Spinach Curry. Replace paneer with tofu for a plant-based protein alternative. Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy cream to maintain that rich texture. This modification not only makes it suitable for vegans but also offers a delightful flavor that complements the spinach beautifully. Enjoy this healthy twist without sacrificing taste or satisfaction.
What can I serve with Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer?
Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Serve it alongside steamed basmati rice for a classic combination, or opt for warm naan bread to scoop up the delicious curry. You can also add side dishes like raita or pickles to enhance your meal’s flavor profile. For a wholesome experience, consider adding a salad made from fresh vegetables to balance out the richness of this dish.
Conclusion for Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer :
Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer is an exquisite balance of flavors and textures that delights any palate. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation method, it’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also provides essential nutrients from spinach and protein from paneer. Whether served on busy weeknights or special occasions, it promises warmth and comfort in every bite. Embrace this delicious recipe as part of your culinary repertoire today!
Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer
Creamy Spinach Curry with Paneer is a delightful Indian dish that perfectly blends vibrant spinach with soft, succulent paneer in a rich coconut milk sauce. This comforting curry is infused with aromatic spices, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Serve it alongside warm naan or steamed rice for a wholesome meal that warms the heart and satisfies the palate.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients
- 6 cups fresh spinach
- 250g paneer, cubed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, grated
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- 1 pinch turmeric powder
- ½ tsp red chili powder (adjust to taste)
- Oil or ghee for cooking
Instructions
- Wash and blanch the spinach in boiling water for 2 minutes, then cool in ice water. Drain well.
- Blend the cooled spinach with half of the garlic and ginger until smooth.
- In a large pan over medium heat, sauté onions in oil until golden brown. Add remaining garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant.
- Stir in cumin, turmeric, and red chili powder; cook for another minute.
- Add the spinach puree and coconut milk; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Gently fold in cubed paneer; cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: - For a vegan option, substitute paneer with tofu and use cashew cream instead of coconut milk. - Enhance flavor by adding garam masala or chili flakes for extra heat.