Palak Paneer/Cottage Cheese in Spinach Gravy

It is really easy to guess an entrée my dad would order at a restaurant. Spinach or Palak, my dad's favorite! He says, it is a healthy entrée option that should be ordered with other food. For me, it is a lush green appetizing gravy which adds refreshing color to my plate. By adding low fat cottage cheese or paneer cubes, I add some protein to a vegetarian meal. Substitute tofu for paneer, a healthier protein option and I have tried that too.

To begin with wash and clean fresh spinach leaves (around6-8 cups).  In a large microwave proof bowl add washed spinach. sprinkle some water and microwave for 3-4 minutes tossing it in between. I do not over cook spinach. it destroys its color and flavor. Let it cool.

In a pan, heat 1 tbsp. ghee/butter. Add 2 bay leaves.

Add a paste of 1 medium onion, 3 garlic cloves and 1/2 inch ginger. Fry this onion paste well till it turns pink in color.

Grind 2 chopped tomatoes to form a smooth puree. Add to sauteed onion paste. Fry tomato puree till it turns bright red in color.

 Add 1 tsp. garam masala powder/all spice powder.

Add some salt.

While tomato puree cooks, puree spinach with remaining water in the bowl to form a smooth paste.

Just before dinner time, add pureed spinach and cubed paneer/cottage cheese. I do not fry paneer cubes. It toughens the protein. You could pan fry with little oil of ghee.

Mix and simmer for 4-5 minutes. Do not over cook spinach.
Grate 1 cube of paneer just before serving.

Serve with Tandoori roti or Naan/Indian Flat bread.

A Healthy, Creamy Gravy without adding any Cream!