Palak Paneer Pulav

 PALAK PANEER PULAV 

DESCRIPTION:- 

Palak Paneer Pulav is a wholesome and flavorful one-pot rice dish that combines the goodness of spinach (palak) and the richness of paneer cubes with aromatic basmati rice. This nutritious pulav is infused with mild spices, making it both healthy and delicious. The vibrant green spinach puree blends beautifully with the rice, while the soft paneer cubes add a creamy texture. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a festive meal, this pulav pairs wonderfully with raita, pickle, or papad. A great choice for those who love balanced flavors and a power-packed meal.

INGREDIENTS:-

1 cup basmati rice (soaked 30 mins)

2 cups spinach (palak), washed and blanched

200 g paneer, cut into cubes

1 onion, thinly sliced

1 tomato, chopped

2 green chilies

1 tsp ginger-garlic paste

2 tbsp oil / ghee

1 bay leaf

1 tsp cumin seeds

1 cinnamon stick, 2-3 cloves, 2 cardamom

½ tsp turmeric powder

1 tsp garam masala

Salt to taste

2 cups water (or adjust as per rice quality)

Fresh coriander for garnish

PREPARATION:-

1. Blanch & Puree Spinach

Boil spinach leaves for 2 minutes, cool, and blend with green chilies into a smooth puree.

2. Fry Paneer

Lightly sauté paneer cubes in a little oil until golden. Keep aside.

3. Cook Base Masala

Heat oil/ghee in a pan or pressure cooker. Add cumin, bay leaf, and whole spices.

Sauté onions until golden. Add ginger-garlic paste and cook for a minute.

Add chopped tomato, turmeric, salt, and cook till soft.

4. Add Spinach Puree

Stir in spinach puree and cook for 2–3 minutes. Add garam masala.

5. Add Rice & Water

Drain soaked rice and add to the mixture. Mix gently.

Add water, cover, and cook until rice is fluffy (or pressure cook for 1 whistle).

6. Finish with Paneer

Add fried paneer cubes on top, mix gently, and let it rest for 5 minutes.

                   

SERVING SUGGESTION:-

Serve hot with raita, papad, or salad. A squeeze of lemon enhances the flavor.